Inspira Health's expanded maternity unit at Inspira Medical Center Mullica Hill is now open...
Pregnancy brings plenty of new experiences, including prenatal appointments. These regular visits help your care team monitor your health and your baby's development throughout each trimester.
“Prenatal visits help support a healthy pregnancy,” said Patricia Ragone, C.N.M., a certified nurse midwife with Inspira Health OBGYN. “Whether you're preparing for your first appointment or your 10th, knowing how to make the most of your time with your provider can ease stress and help you feel more confident.” Here's a simple guide to what you should and shouldn't do before, during and after your prenatal visits.
The Dos
- Do come with questions. Pregnancy can bring up new questions every week, from food cravings to sleep changes. Keep a running list on your phone or in a notebook so you don't forget anything once you're in the office. Even small concerns are worth bringing up. Your OB/GYN would rather hear about them than have you worry at home.
- Do bring a support person when you can. Having a partner, family member or trusted friend with you at prenatal appointments can help you remember details, ask questions and feel supported. This is especially helpful during ultrasounds or when discussing test results.
- Do track your symptoms. Notes about how you've been feeling, including details on headaches, swelling, nausea or changes in your baby's movement, give your OB/GYN useful information. Apps and journals can make tracking easier to remember, but even a quick list on your phone or on paper works.
- Do be honest about your lifestyle.“Your care team isn't there to judge,” said Ragone. “Sharing accurate information about diet, exercise, work stress, sleep, mental health and any substance use helps your doctor give the right guidance for you and your baby.”
- Do confirm your insurance and come prepared. Calling your insurance company before your first visit can help you understand what's covered. Bring your ID, insurance card and any records from a previous provider so your check-in goes smoothly.
The Don’ts of Prenatal Appointment
- Don’t skip prenatal appointments. Regular prenatal visits are essential, even if you feel perfectly healthy. “Some pregnancy conditions, like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure, can develop quietly without obvious symptoms,” said Ragone. “Routine checkups that include screenings such as blood pressure readings, urine tests and bloodwork help your doctor catch issues early, when they're easier to treat.”
- Don't rely on the internet or AI. The internet and AI tools offer plenty of helpful information, but they also contain misinformation. If you read something that worries you, write it down and ask your doctor about it. They can offer medically sound advice tailored to your health history.
- Don’t be afraid to speak up. If something feels off physically or emotionally, say so. Pain, anxiety, mood changes or sudden symptoms all deserve attention. “Speaking up early can make a real difference and help you get the care, reassurance or follow-up testing you need before a small concern becomes a bigger one,” said Ragone.
- Don’t forget to follow up. After your appointment, take a few minutes to review any instructions, schedule recommended tests and update your calendar with the next visit. If you think of a question on the drive home, call the office.
A healthy partnership
Prenatal appointments are a partnership between you and your care team. Coming prepared, asking questions and being open about how you feel can help your provider give you the best possible support during pregnancy. If you're looking for compassionate maternity care close to home, Inspira Health offers a full range of services to guide you from your first appointment through delivery and beyond.
