Title: Prenatal care and tests | Office on Women's Health
Headings: 
Breadcrumb
Prenatal care and tests
Choosing a prenatal care provider
Places to deliver your baby
Prenatal checkups
Monitor your baby's activity
Prenatal tests
High-risk pregnancy
Paying for prenatal care
More information on prenatal care and tests

Content: Your midwife should also have access to a doctor 24 hours a day. Prenatal checkups
During pregnancy, regular checkups are very important. This consistent care can help keep you and your baby healthy, spot problems if they occur, and prevent problems during delivery. Typically, routine checkups occur: Once each month for weeks four through 28
Twice a month for weeks 28 through 36
Weekly for weeks 36 to birth
Women with high-risk pregnancies need to see their doctors more often. At your first visit your doctor will perform a full physical exam, take your blood for lab tests, and calculate your due date. Your doctor might also do a breast exam, a pelvic exam to check your uterus (womb), and a cervical exam, including a Pap test. During this first visit, your doctor will ask you lots of questions about your lifestyle, relationships, and health habits. It's important to be honest with your doctor. After the first visit, most prenatal visits will include: