After your initial evaluation, each visit will involve measuring the growth of your tummy, listening for the fetal heartbeat, measuring your blood pressure, urine protein and sugar, and recording your weight.
At about 15-20 weeks, an abdominal ultrasound will be done to rule out any structural problems. Special blood tests like alpha fetal protein to measure the risk of Down's Syndrome and other chromosomal problems will be offered at about 15 weeks.
If you are over 35 years old, an amniocentesis is offered. This involves drawing fluid from the uterus to look for potential abnormalities.
Not until your 35th week will you be asked to undress, like in your first visit. At this time, a Group B Strep bacterial culture will be drawn from the vagina with a cotton swab. At your 38th week and beyond, your doctor may perform a manual pelvic exam to check the position of your baby and the dilation and thinning of your cervix.
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