You should expect to see
your doctor every 4-to-6 weeks until you are 28 weeks pregnant, then
your visits should go to every 3 weeks, then every 2 weeks, then
once a week for the last four weeks.
Fetal movement should
begin at 15-18 weeks. At 24-to-28 weeks, all moms should be tested
for diabetes because the placenta produces a substance that can
affect how glucose is metabolized. Know your blood type. If you are
Rh negative, have the baby’s father tested. If he is Rh positive,
Rhogam should be injected at 28 weeks and should be re-injected
after delivery. Failure to receive the second injection could
risk future pregancies, so nag until you get it!
Moms are routinely tested
at 32-36 weeks for Group B Strep bacteria, which is the primary
cause of meningitis in newborns. This should be a vaginal and
rectal swab, be sure both areas are sampled. If you’re positive, you
aren’t treated for this until in labor. If you do test positive,
make sure you’re getting IV antibiotics during labor. Know your
Group B status, and be sure that hospital personnel are also aware
of it.
Bad pain and bleeding,
unusual pressure or abnormal discharge at any time during pregnancy
should always be brought to the attention of your doctor
immediately. Discharge with odor can be bacterial vaginitis,
which untreated can lead to premature labor. Urinary tract
infections are common and must be treated right away, as pregnancy
speeds this infection to the kidneys.
Other
Points To Remember
- Sexual intercourse is
safe unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Spotting afterward
is common, and as long as it is painless and brief, intercourse
poses no concern.
- Take your pre-natal
vitamins. Many studies have found vitamins and minerals--
especially Omega 3 and Folic Acid—can prevent birth defects.
- If you go out of
town, take a copy of your chart in case there are complications.
- Tour the hospital
sooner rather than later;
- Write down questions
and concerns before every OB visit so you remember them.
During the
3rd trimester
