Title: What is involved in a prenatal physical exam? | Health & Pregnancy - Sharecare
Headings: What is involved in a prenatal physical exam?
What is involved in a prenatal physical exam?
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Content: A thorough physical is done to assure you have no medical problems that would affect your pregnancy. Many tests will be performed including pap smears, STD cultures, urine testing, bloodwork and ultrasounds. It is important to know things like your blood type, whether you are immune to things like rubella which can cause birth defects during pregnancy, as well as whether you currently have any signs of cancer or infections or any recent exposures to things which might harm your baby. Your uterus will be sized to see how far along your pregnancy is and if you are having more than one baby. A dating sonogram will also be ordered to confirm the findings. It is important to know your family history and the family history of the father of the baby to share with your health care provider. You should share with them any medicine you are taking and any allergies you may have. Do not be embarrassed to tell them about any history of abnormal pap smears, infections, history of batter or abuse, or if you have had an abortion or any procedure done to your uterus or cervix. This is really important to help us provide you the safest care for you and your baby. Make a list of questions to take with you for your first visit to your midwife or ob/gyn.