OB New Physical Appointment

What is an the new OB Physical Appointment?

• Usually done between 8 - 12 weeks of pregnancy.
• Typically conducted by a Nurse Practitioner and/or Certified Nurse Midwife

Before your new OB Physical Appointment

Before your appointment make a list of:

• Go to the lab a day prior to your appointment to have your bloodwork drawn. If you appointment is on a Monday, go to the lab the Friday before.
• Current and previous medical problems.
• Previous hospitalizations. Bring record available for review if possible.
• Any minor or major surgeries and complications associated with it.
• Any current and / or previous female problems (i.e. abnormal Pap smear, Sexually Transmitted infections, pelvic pain, etc.).
• Any medication that you are taking - those prescribe to you by a healthcare provider or those bought over-the-counter.
• All pregnancies (terminations, miscarriages, vaginal births, c-sections, stillbirth).
• For those pregnancy(s) with complications, we need you to:
  • Bring records for review.
  • Find out the exact name of the hospital so medical correspondence can help you request these records.
• Write down questions and concerns you have regarding any issues.

Day of Your New OB Physical Appointment

• Plan to arrive at the OB/Gyn Clinic at least 60 minutes prior to your appointment time.
• You will be given questionnaires and forms to fill out.
• Accurately fill out these questionnaires before you speak with your nursing staff.
• Bring the health history list you’ve prepared

Issues Discussed During New OB Physical

• Education is provided regarding:
  • The pregnancy course
  • Labs, both highly recommended and optional ones
  • General health
  • Nutrition
• Schedule of appointments during the pregnancy.
• Go over the Pregnancy and Childbirth book.
• Introduce the concept of Centering in Pregnancy.
• Go over all your health / pregnancy histories.
• Discuss any concerns that you may have regarding your current pregnancy.
• Referral to specialty services as medically indicated.
• Routine blood tests results are reviewed during this appointment. Other blood tests will be ordered based on your medical / pregnancy history.

This is usually scheduled between 10–12 weeks of pregnancy.

During this visit:

• Go over your health / pregnancy history again.
• Go over your blood test results.
• Physical examination.
• Pelvic exam
• Pap smear
• Screening for sexually transmitted infection of the cervix and vagina.
• Listen to the baby’s heart beat.
• An us is done to confirm dating of pregnancy unless one has previously been done.
• Go over plan for the pregnancy based on your history, the lab tests, and physical examination result.
• Schedule for follow up appointment.