Throughout most of the pregnancy, you will be seeing your health care provider approximately once a month. These visits will increase to once every two weeks in the later part of pregnancy. You may be seen by your family doctor through to the end of your pregnancy or he/she may see you up to a certain point and then transfer your care to an obstetrician.

In some medical practices, you will initially see a nurse practitioner and they will transfer your care to the family physician or obstetrician. If you have chosen a midwife, they will see you throughout the pregnancy.

You will need to give information about your health history at your first visit to your health care provider. Your partner or support person is usually welcome to attend these visits with you. It is important to feel free to ask any questions you may have or express any concerns that are troubling you. You may want to write your questions down to be sure that you don't forget what you wanted to ask.

During the early office visits, your care provider will order a variety of blood or lab tests, but will explain the purpose and results. Some tests may need to be repeated later in the pregnancy. At each visit, you will be asked to provide a urine sample and you will be weighed. Your health care provider will also take your blood pressure and examine and measure your abdomen. Once the baby has developed sufficiently, they will check the baby's heartbeat at each visit.

Because of the possibility of complications arising, it is important to schedule regular visits to your health care provider and to keep each appointment. Regular prenatal care helps ensure a healthy outcome for both mother and baby.