Frequently Asked Questions About When to See an OB
Curious about when to see an OB? Whether you’re planning a pregnancy or are already expecting, here’s what you need to know about how an obstetrician can support you through pregnancy, labor and delivery, and beyond.
Obstetricians are physicians who are specially trained to manage pregnancies and deliver babies. They work with you throughout your pregnancy to help keep you and your baby safe and healthy. They can provide good information about pregnancy diet and exercise, perform any necessary procedures, monitor your baby’s growth, and check for and treat any complications that may arise. And of course, your obstetrician will be by your side during labor and delivery. In many cases, a gynecologist is also an obstetrician, as the OBGYN specialty includes combined training in both areas.
If you think you’re pregnant and you’re not sure when to see an OB, it’s wise to make an appointment to see an obstetrician as soon as you suspect that you are pregnant or see a positive home pregnancy test. This way, your OB can make sure you’re all set for a healthy pregnancy, schedule all the routine prenatal visits that you will need, and help you make a birth plan. For most women, the first prenatal visit is scheduled about seven or eight weeks after the first day of their last period. You’ll continue to see your OB for at least a month and a half after the delivery, just to be sure that all is well.
Regular care throughout pregnancy helps to keep you and your baby healthy and safe. Your OB will monitor you throughout your pregnancy, providing regular prenatal testing and exams, as well as information and support that you may need. Your doctor will regularly monitor your baby’s growth and position, check for any abnormalities or complications, and treat any health conditions that may arise along the way. Once it’s time for your baby’s birth, your OB will care for you through labor and delivery, then will continue to provide postpartum care to help you have a healthy recovery.
Finding out when to see an OB is an important first step in pregnancy, because you’ll need to see your obstetrician on a regular basis for several months. Most women will see their OB every four weeks during the first 28 weeks of pregnancy. After that, visits will become more frequent, with most women seeing their OB every two weeks, up until week 36. From that point until the baby is born, appointments will be scheduled weekly. Women who have a high-risk pregnancy or complications will likely need to see their OB more often.
At your first pregnancy appointment with your obstetrician, you can expect your OB to talk with you about how you are feeling, as well as what medications or supplements you are taking. Your doctor will likely order a blood pregnancy test, as well as other bloodwork to check your hormone levels and other indicators of overall wellness. Depending on where you are in pregnancy, your OB may perform an ultrasound exam to check on your baby’s development. The first ultrasound is typically done between weeks eight and 12 of your pregnancy, calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period. Your OB will also talk with you about nutrition and answer any of your questions about pregnancy and birth.
Yes. Your obstetrician will check in on you during your stay at the hospital after your baby is born. Once you’re discharged and go home with your baby, your OB will want to see you back at their office for an appointment about six weeks after the birth. At this appointment, you can expect your OB to talk to you about your mental and physical recovery, and to perform a physical exam to make sure that healing is going well and there are no complications. If you have questions about when to see an OB after delivery, you can call the office at any time to get answers or extra support for any concerns.
Not at all! Because many obstetricians are also gynecologists, women are encouraged to start seeing an OBGYN during with their teenage years. Regular well-woman care is in important part of staying healthy, and an OBGYN can also help with birth control, breast health and mammograms, sexual health, and any problems that may arise with your reproductive system, such as pain or signs of infection.
Wondering when to see an OB before getting pregnant? If you know you want to have a baby, it’s a great idea to make an appointment with your OBGYN for preconception planning before you go off of birth control or start actively trying to get pregnant. Your OB can help you ensure that you are mentally and physically prepared to have a healthy pregnancy. This includes making sure you have all necessary vaccinations to protect yourself and your baby, and that you are taking only medications and supplements that are safe for pregnancy. Your OB can also order any necessary testing to rule out or better manage any medical issues that might cause pregnancy complications. If you’re having trouble getting pregnant, a visit with your OBGYN is a great place to start.
Your OB will be your partner through pregnancy and beyond, so you want a doctor who makes you feel comfortable and takes their time to answer your questions and listen to your concerns. Your OB should support your wishes for your birth plan. Additionally, your OB should have someone available after hours to help you if you need it, whether it’s your own physician or another OB in a group practice.
Your obstetrician is your partner in supporting a healthy pregnancy and birth for you and your baby. At Legacy Women’s Health, it is our honor to walk beside you through this exciting and beautiful phase of your life. If you have questions about when to see an OB, are planning a pregnancy, or are pregnant and looking for a caring, experienced obstetrician to support you, we are here for you. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
