These are the standard prenatal care visits. However, based on your particular risk-factors and needs, additional visits and ultrasounds may be scheduled.
12 weeks: Ultrasound
To measure nuchal fold, a screening test for chromosome and cardiac abnormalities. This is a fun ultrasound. Your baby already looks like a little person with arms and legs. You don’t feel movement yet, but you’ll see you baby doing flips inside your uterus at this visit.
16 weeks: AFP
(alpha fetoprotein) is a blood test to screen for neural tube defects (proper closure of the spinal cord). This will typically be the first visit where we listen to your baby’s heartbeat using a doppler.
20 weeks: Anatomy ultrasound
Ultrasound technology has limitations and not every abnormality can be detected in this way. However, our experienced techs and physicians will review all the basic anatomy of your baby and hopefully reassure you that the chance of any major problem is low.
24 weeks
Routine visit. This is a good time to ask questions, talk about hospital registration, tours, birthing classes and other expectations as we get closer to the birth of your child
28 weeks
1-hour glucose test, HIV, RPR, CBC, and TDAP vaccine
- Women who have Rh-negative blood types will receive a Rhogam injection
- TDAP immunization is typically given at this visit
32 weeks
Ultrasound to measure fetal weight and position
36 weeks
Group B Strep culture
