For a healthy and happy pregnancy, you need early and ongoing prenatal care. At KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology in Atlanta, Georgia, the expert OB/GYNs specialize in prenatal care. They take a patient-centered approach and spend the time needed to answer any questions throughout your pregnancy. For compassionate and patient-centered prenatal care, call or schedule an appointment online today.

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When should I start prenatal care?

You should start prenatal care within the first eight weeks of your pregnancy. The providers at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology  recommend you contact the office as soon as you know you’re pregnant to schedule your first prenatal care appointment.

In most cases, your OB/GYN schedules your first appointment eight weeks after the first day of your last menstrual period. However, your provider may ask that you come in earlier if your pregnancy is high risk.

What happens during my first prenatal care appointment?

Your first prenatal care appointment at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology  is the longest and most comprehensive appointment.

During this visit, your OB/GYN spends time talking to you about your gynecological, obstetric, and personal medical history. They also review your family history and your partner’s health and family history.

Then, your OB/GYN performs an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy and estimate your due date. They conduct a physical and pelvic exam and run several tests to assess your general health and screen for health issues and concerns.

After your examination, your OB/GYN spends time educating and counseling you about your pregnancy.

They also take the time needed to answer any questions and start the conversation about your delivery plan, including vaginal deliveries, cesarean section, and vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC).

How frequently do I need prenatal care?

The frequency of your prenatal care visits depends on your weeks of gestation and your personal health needs. Typically, you can expect appointments:

  • Once a month from week four through week 28
  • Every two weeks from week 29 through week 36
  • Weekly from week 36 until birth

During your prenatal care follow-up visits, your provider checks your weight, health of your baby, and discusses how you’re doing.

What types of prenatal care tests do I need?

Your OB/GYN at KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology performs many prenatal care tests throughout your pregnancy. Some prenatal care tests are standard, but your OB/GYN may request special tests because of your age or medical history.

Customary prenatal tests include:

  • STD screening
  • Glucose tolerance test for gestational diabetes
  • Blood pressure check
  • Urinalysis for preeclampsia
  • Genetic testing
  • Group B strep culture
  • Fetal monitoring
  • Amniocentesis
  • Chorionic villus sampling

Your provider discusses the various prenatal tests and how they benefit you and your baby.

For patient-centered prenatal care, call KEM Health Obstetrics & Gynecology or book an appointment online today.