When you discover that you are pregnant, you might find yourself a little stressed about going to the doctor for the first time. After all, who wants to undress in front of a stranger? Although it might seem intimidating, meeting with a doctor is the first step to a healthy pregnancy. Here are two things to expect from your first OBGYN appointment, and why you shouldn't worry.
1: Offering Your Medical History
Although your thyroid condition and old car accident might not seem like a pressing current matter, the details of your medical history can have a significant bearing on your pregnancy. You might have anatomical differences created by previous surgeries, or your medication might have to be changed based on existing health conditions. For these reasons, one of the first things you will do when you go to the doctor is talk about your overall health.
In addition to learning about conditions and previous surgeries, your doctor might also ask about things like sexually transmitted diseases and prior pregnancies. For example, if you have had a miscarriage before, it might change the way your prenatal care is handled. You might be asked to have additional sonograms to make sure that the baby is alright, or take medication to keep your hormones in check.
Although it might seem embarrassing to discuss private health matters with a new doctor, being open and honest is crucial for your treatment. Remember that your information is protected by patient privacy laws, and that your doctor has probably treated similar cases in the past.
2: A Sonogram
After your doctor has a better idea about your overall health and potential for complications, he or she will physically check on your little one by issuing a sonogram. Here are a few things your doctor will look for:
Whatever the outcome of your sonogram may be, remember that your doctor is there for support. After evaluating the situation, your doctor might let you know what to expect so that you don't worry.
By understanding what will happen during your first OBGYN appointment, you might be able to relax and enjoy the experience.
Share27 March 2015
After watching my mother navigate treatment for breast cancer in my early teens, I knew pretty much what to expect from my dad's diagnosis with prostate cancer. What I didn't know was how different chemotherapy and radiation can affect different people. My mother became very ill while my dad seemed to weather the treatments with few ill effects. I spent a long time researching the differences in treatments, types of chemotherapy, and how each one can react differently with the body. I created this blog to help others understand the same things, because I knew I couldn't be the only one unfamiliar with it. I hope it helps you if someone you love is facing treatment for any type of cancer.
