What to Expect at Your Midwife Prenatal Appointment

Going to a prenatal appointment was always a lot of fun for me. You'll probably find that your midwife spends 30 minutes to an hour with you. She may spend more time with you! Expect her to do some routine checks, a physical examination, and to take time to talk with you and listen to your questions and concerns.

When You First Arrive at Your Prenatal Appointment

Your midwife will probably do a urine dip at each appointment. A urine dip tests for numerous things, including glucose (sugar) and protein in your urine. Some midwives have you do your own urine dip, and others do it for you after you've collected a urine sample in a cup.

Your midwife will probably check your weight to keep a record in your chart. Again, she may have you weigh yourself or she may do it. Some midwives choose not to do routine weight checks at the prental appointment - they only weigh you if there seems to be a problem.

You'll find the physical portion of your prenatal appointment quickly becomes routine! Your midwife will check your blood pressure and your pulse. She'll probably feel your ankles to see if you have any swelling (this is important to monitor as a warning sign for pre-eclampsia).

Checking on Baby

She'll check your fundal height at your prental appointment. This is the height from your pubic bone to the top of your uterus. She may not check this at your early appointments - your uterus just isn't big enough yet!

She'll palpate your abdomen to feel the baby's position as soon as your baby is big enough! Your midwife will also listen to your baby's heartbeat and placenta. At first this will have to be done with a Doppler machine (if you decide that's ok), but by mid-pregnancy she can use a fetascope - a special stethoscope designed to listen to babies in utero. If you prefer your midwife not use a Doppler at your prenatal appointment let her know.

Time For You!

Your midwife will probably spend a good portion of time talking to you. She may have a checklist of questions she asks you at each appointment. Use this time to ask questions or voice any concerns. If you are worried about something talking to your midwife is the best thing you can do!

Diet is an important part of your personal care and your midwife will probably ask you some questions about how you've been eating, or if you're having trouble eating well. This is an important part of your prenatal appointment!

Your midwife will ask you about any physical symptoms you may have been having, such as nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. She will also ask you if you have had any spotting or bleeding - my midwife always asked this and then said "I'm sure I'd have heard from you if you had!" Talking with your midwife is probably the longest portion of your prenatal appointment. Your midwife is concerned about you physically and emotionally. Let her know anything on your mind, any frustrations or fears you may be having - anything! Your midwife can give you suggestions on situations you are having at work or with family. Your appointments are your time, ask for what you need!

Natural Birth and Baby Care.com