Frequency of Visits
The frequency of follow-up visits is determined by the individual needs of the woman and the assessment of her risks. Generally, a woman with an uncomplicated pregnancy is examined every 4 weeks for the first 28 weeks of gestation, every 2-3 weeks until 36 weeks of gestation, and weekly thereafter.

First Prenatal Visit

History and Risk Assessment

Assemble obstetric data base that contains information regarding the patient's last menstrual period, current pregnancy and past obstetric outcomes, medical and social history, a dietary assessment, physical findings, estimated date of delivery (EDD), laboratory tests (including HIV screening), and risk assessment (SCDHHS Pregnancy Form 204(P)).

Subsequent Prenatal Visits

• Blood pressure measurement
• Urinalysis for glucose/albumin
• Weight measurement and cumulative weight gain
• Fetal movement
• Evaluation of edema
• Measurement of fundal height
• Evaluation of fetal heart tones and rate

Patient Information and Education

Counseling is an ongoing and continuous process through out the prenatal period. These items should be addressed as early as possible during prenatal care and continually reassessed.

• Signs and Symptoms to be reported to the physician
• Timing of subsequent visits
• Educational programs (Childbirth education)
• Analgesia and Anesthetic options
• Balanced nutrition, ideal caloric intake and weight gain
• Exercise and daily activity
• Hazards of smoking/alcohol/drug consumption
• Breast feeding
• Postpartum care

Postpartum Care

Follow-up examination approximately 4-6 weeks after delivery. Examination should include:

• Weight
• Blood pressure
• Breasts
• Abdomen
• Pelvic Examination
• Patient Concerns
• Family spacing

Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

For additional information relating to nutrition, exercise, work and relationships during pregnancy, visit www.pregnancy.org.