Pregnant for the First Time? Your Guide to an OB Appointment
- athenawomenspecialist
- Aug 4
- 6 min read
Updated: 23 hours ago
If you’ve just found out you’re pregnant, you probably have a hundred questions running through your mind—“When should I see a doctor?” “What tests will I need?” “Is everything normal so far?” Your first obstetrician (OB) appointment is where you find answers to those questions. It’s the starting point of your prenatal care—and one of the most important visits of your pregnancy journey.
Whether you’re feeling excited, anxious, or both, this guide will walk you through what happens during your first OB appointment, what you should bring and what questions you should ask your pregnancy doctor in Singapore—so you can walk in prepared and walk out feeling confident.
When to Schedule Your First Pregnancy Appointment
It's generally recommended to schedule your first OB appointment as soon as you suspect you're pregnant. Ideally, this should be around the 8th week of pregnancy. Besides confirming your pregnancy, early appointments are essential for assessing your health and planning contingencies around any conditions you have.
What to Expect During the First Visit
Your first OB appointment is likely to be comprehensive. It will include a review of your medical history, a physical examination, and possibly an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and estimate your due date.
Your doctor will also discuss:
your lifestyle
diet
any medications you are currently taking
This visit is an opportunity to establish a relationship with your healthcare provider and set the foundation for your prenatal care.
Questions to Ask Your Obstetrician
To make the most of your appointment, it would help to have a list of questions prepared. We’ve got you covered. Here are some you can start with:
Is my pregnancy considered low-risk or high-risk?
Understanding whether your pregnancy is low-risk or high-risk will help your doctor tailor your prenatal care. They will consider factors such as your age, medical history and lifestyle.
What's my estimated due date?
Your estimated due date is calculated based on the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) and is typically around 40 weeks from that date. Knowing this date helps you plan and prepare for the arrival of your baby. An ultrasound during your first visit can provide a more accurate estimation by measuring your baby's size.
How far along am I now?
Determining how far along you are in your pregnancy is crucial for tracking your baby's development and scheduling future appointments. Your doctor may use an ultrasound to confirm the gestational age, which helps in monitoring the baby's growth and development milestones.
Are my current medications safe during pregnancy?
Some medications may not be safe during pregnancy, as they can affect fetal development. It's important to review all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, with your doctor. Here are some common medications to take note of:
Ibuprofen: Typically not recommended, especially in the third trimester, as it may affect fetal development
Acetylsalicylic acid: Usually avoided during pregnancy unless prescribed by a doctor for specific conditions, such as preeclampsia prevention.
Antibiotics: Some antibiotics, like penicillin and amoxicillin, are generally safe, while others, such as tetracycline, should be avoided due to potential harm to the developing baby.
Decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine): Should be used with caution, especially in the first trimester, and only under a doctor's guidance.
Antidepressants: Some, like certain SSRIs, may be used under medical supervision, but others may pose risks.
What foods or activities should I avoid?
Your doctor will provide guidance on foods and activities to avoid during pregnancy. This may include avoiding certain unpasteurised dairy products, and raw or undercooked meats, seafood or eggs. Your doctor may also recommend that you avoid high-impact sports and any activity that poses a risk of injury.
Is it okay to continue exercising or working?
Staying active is generally beneficial during pregnancy, but it's important to discuss your exercise routine and work environment with your doctor to ensure they are safe.
What are the next steps after today's visit?
During your first appointment, your doctor will outline the next steps in your prenatal care, including any additional tests or screenings that may be needed. If you’re considering a pregnancy package, you can consider Athena’s.
How often will I need to come in for checkups?
Regular checkups are essential for monitoring your health and your baby's development. Typically, appointments are scheduled every four weeks until the 32nd week, every two weeks until the 36th week, and weekly until delivery. If your pregnancy is considered high-risk, you may need more regular appointments and tests.
What to Bring With You
Besides having the right questions, it would help to prepare some documents:
A List of Medications: Compile a comprehensive list of all medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and any supplements or herbal remedies. Note the dosage and frequency for each. This information is crucial for your doctor to assess the safety of these medications during pregnancy and make any necessary adjustments.
Your Medical History: Bring a detailed list of your medical history, including any past surgeries, chronic conditions, allergies, and previous pregnancies or miscarriages. If possible, include your family medical history, as it can provide insights into potential genetic conditions or risks.
Prepared Questions: Above, we ran through some of the questions you can ask your doctor. Why not write or print them out, so you have them ready at hand?
Tips to Prepare for a Healthy Pregnancy
While getting ready for your OB appointment is crucial, don't forget that what you do outside the doctor's office is just as important. Here are some practical tips to consider:
Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Consider taking prenatal vitamins as recommended by your doctor.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and support your body's increased needs during pregnancy.
Rest: Prioritise rest and sleep to help your body adjust to the changes of pregnancy.
Avoid Harmful Substances: Steer clear of alcohol and tobacco, as they can harm your developing baby.
Talk to A Pregnancy Doctor in Singapore
At Athena Women’s Specialist, we understand that your first pregnancy journey can be both exciting and overwhelming. Under the care of Dr Ida Ismail-Pratt, a Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist with years of experience in pregnancy care, we offer comprehensive maternity packages tailored to patients’ needs.
We believe in building a partnership with our patients, ensuring you have all the information and support needed for a safe and fulfilling pregnancy experience. Whether you're planning for a natural birth or need a caesarean section, our pregnancy doctor and care team in Singapore is ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I schedule my first prenatal appointment?
You should schedule your first prenatal appointment as soon as you know you're pregnant. Most women have their first visit between 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy, which is about 2 to 4 weeks after a missed period. If you have any chronic health conditions, a history of miscarriage, or irregular periods, it's recommended to schedule an appointment even sooner.
What can I expect during my first prenatal appointment?
Your first prenatal visit is often the longest. It will typically include a comprehensive review of your personal and family medical history, a physical exam (which may include a pelvic exam and a Pap test), blood tests, and a urine test. Your doctor will also check your blood pressure and weight. An ultrasound may be performed to confirm the pregnancy and detect the baby's heartbeat. You'll also discuss your lifestyle, nutrition, and any medications you're taking.
What are some important questions to ask my doctor during my first visit?
It's a great idea to come prepared with questions for your first prenatal visit. Some important questions to ask include: What lifestyle changes should I make (regarding exercise, diet, etc.)? Are my current medications safe to take during pregnancy? What prenatal vitamins do you recommend? What are the common symptoms I can expect in early pregnancy and how can I manage them? Who can I contact if I have questions or concerns between appointments? What are the signs of a potential problem that I should watch out for?
What tests are performed during the first prenatal visit?
During your first prenatal visit, you can expect a number of routine tests. These typically include: A urine test to confirm pregnancy and check for infections. Blood tests to check your blood type (including Rh factor), hemoglobin levels (to screen for anemia), and immunity to certain infections like rubella. You'll also be screened for STIs such as hepatitis B, syphilis, and HIV. A Pap test to screen for cervical cancer, if you haven't had one recently.
How is my estimated due date calculated?
Your estimated due date (EDD) is typically calculated based on the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). The most common method is to add 7 days to your LMP and then count back 3 months. An early ultrasound can also be used to help confirm or determine the due date, especially if your periods are irregular.
Are there any lifestyle changes I should discuss with my doctor at my first appointment?
Yes, it is very important to have an open and honest conversation with your doctor about your lifestyle. You should discuss your diet, exercise habits, any use of tobacco, alcohol, or recreational drugs, and any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are taking. Your doctor can provide guidance on what is safe for you and your baby.
Should I be taking any supplements before my first prenatal appointment?
Yes, it is highly recommended to start taking a folic acid supplement as soon as you find out you are pregnant, even before your first appointment. Folic acid is crucial in the early weeks of pregnancy to help prevent birth defects of the brain and spine. You can get folic acid supplements over the counter at most pharmacies.
