TLDR:
If you think you’re pregnant, call your doctor as soon as possible to schedule your first prenatal appointment—ideally between 6 and 8 weeks after the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP). Your provider will confirm the pregnancy, review your health history, and begin important screenings to support a healthy pregnancy. If you want personalized prenatal guidance or to start care early, schedule a visit with Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology today. Call 954‑340‑1050 or book online.
What you need to know if you’re asking the question, “When should I go to the doctor for pregnancy tests and appointments?”
So you or your partner have taken a home pregnancy test and it’s come up positive. For many, this is an exciting time, ready to jump into the journey and plan for parenthood. For others, it may leave you feeling uncertain or nervous. That’s okay, too! But for almost everyone, the next question is often, “When should I go to the doctor for pregnancy?”
Whether you were planning to conceive, or if you are feeling completely surprised, this is an overview to help orient you to the first steps of pregnancy.
If you live in the Coral Springs, Florida area and think you may be pregnant, you can easily schedule an appointment today at Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology. We offer pregnancy confirmation as well as total obstetrical care.
So, when should I go to the doctor for pregnancy for my first appointment?
If you believe you’re pregnant and have taken a home pregnancy test that gave a positive result, you can call your doctor to schedule your first appointment. At your first visit, you will be administered a pregnancy test to officially confirm your pregnancy. If you’re unsure about the reliability of your home pregnancy test, it is a good idea to make an appointment anyway so that you can get proper confirmation.
Typically, you should go to a doctor for pregnancy for your first prenatal exam between 6 and 8 weeks after your last period. However, you should go to the doctor for pregnancy-related appointments or at least call to speak to a physician, at any point if you have any doubts or concerns.
What happens at the first prenatal exam?
The first prenatal exam is when your obstetrician or primary care physician will be able to provide a pregnancy test to confirm your pregnancy. However, you may also have a full check-up exam along with other tests such as:
- Bloodwork panels to identify your blood type and your Rhesus (Rh) factor, and check to see if you are anemic or have any immunity diseases like chickenpox.
- Urine test to check your levels of glucose, protein, and white blood cells.
- Screenings to see if you are a carrier of genetic conditions like Tay-Sachs disease and cystic fibrosis, to name a few.
- STD screening
- Pap smear
If you live in Broward or Dade county and do not currently have a primary care physician or an obstetrician but you think you should go to a doctor for pregnancy care, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology today.
Come to your prenatal visit prepared
If you’re searching “when should I go to a doctor for pregnancy,” you’re likely looking for information and support beyond a one-word answer.
Here’s our advice: write down a list of all your questions and concerns you want to ask your doctor. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed once you are at your appointment. If you have your questions prepared ahead of time, you’ll be able to address all of your concerns and not miss anything. Your doctor is there to support and guide you, so take advantage of that and ask away!
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FAQ: When Should I Go to the Doctor For Pregnancy
Q: When should I schedule my first prenatal appointment?
A: Most providers recommend scheduling your first prenatal visit between 6 and 8 weeks of pregnancy, counting from the first day of your last menstrual period.
Q: What if I want to confirm my pregnancy sooner?
A: You can see your doctor earlier for confirmation. A blood test in the office can confirm pregnancy a bit sooner than a home test if needed. (Lona Sasser, MD)
Q: What happens during the first prenatal visit?
A: Your provider usually confirms the pregnancy (with blood or urine tests), reviews your medical and family history, measures vital signs, and performs lab screenings like bloodwork and urine tests.
Q: Do I need an ultrasound at my first appointment?
A: Many practices perform an early ultrasound around 6 to 10 weeks to confirm gestational age and check for a heartbeat, but this can vary by provider.
Q: What should I bring to my first prenatal appointment?
A: Bring your medical history, date of your last period (LMP), a list of any medications or supplements you take, and any questions you have about your pregnancy.
Q: What if I have concerns before my first scheduled visit?
A: You should call your provider sooner if you have concerns such as bleeding, pain, or questions about your pregnancy at any time.