Pregnancy is an exciting time for any couple, and when it comes to ensuring excellent medical care, preparing in advance will help your obstetrician. In addition to discussing any ongoing medical conditions, you'll set the tone for months to come in terms of obstetric care.
Make a note of any relevant medical history
Whether this is your first or a subsequent pregnancy, providing your obstetrician with information regarding your medical history is essential. Issues you may want to consider include:
- Your menstrual cycle and whether it's normal
- Any fertility issues
- Details of your last pregnancy and birth
- Your first-degree relatives' medical problems
- Gynaecological conditions, including sexually transmitted diseases
- Medications you're taking
Making a note of the issues you may need to discuss ensures you don't miss anything important.
Make a note of what you hope to gain from your obstetric care
If you're spending a lot of time trying to find a private obstetrician, it's worth making a note of what you want to gain in the next few months so you can maximise your medical care. For example, if you feel you'll need extra support to combat issues such as birth trauma or changing medications, letting your care providers know at this stage allows them to get the right support systems in place early on. As a result, you can relax more during your pregnancy. Issues you may wish to discuss could include:
- Special birth needs, such as a vaginal birth following a caesarean section
- Adjusting medications that you cannot take during your pregnancy
- Screening for genetic defects
- Managing the re-emergence of peripartum conditions such as gestational diabetes
Find out what your partner's needs are
If you do bring your partner to the appointment with you, you may wish to ask them what their needs are too. If they have questions of their own, finding out what's important to them before the appointment is an easy way to equip them with the knowledge they need to support you during your pregnancy. In addition, having such discussions in advance reduces interruptions during your appointment and allows you to gather information smoothly.
After attending your first obstetrician appointment, you'll have the chance to schedule your next checkup. In addition, you'll find out about numbers you can call if you have any concerns, as well as any treatments that are unique to your medical state. Should any concerns arise following your initial meeting, contact your obstetrician to have them addressed.
