Prenatal visits in an uncomplicated pregnancy will be:

• Every four weeks for the first 28 weeks
• Every two weeks until 36 weeks
• Weekly until birth

Each visit will include an interval history or how you have been doing since the last visit, a discussion of any discomforts or problems you have been having, some question and answer time, and a review of the baby’s development at each week. You will also have a blood pressure check, a urine dipstick for protein and glucose, weight, fundal height, fetal presentation, fetal heart rate, and your assessment of the baby’s activity. We will discuss the usual lab tests and what information they give us, the benefits and consequences.

The first visit may be your free consultation or the initial visit when we discuss your medical and obstetrical "her story," review lab tests, and begin a physical assessment.

At 36 weeks we do a home visit to make sure we can find your house and to be familiar with the birth environment. We also make sure you have all your supplies and birth kit available. It is nice to have all those you plan to have at the birth present for this visit so we can all get acquainted and catch your vision for your birth.

We expect you to call us as soon as you have any signs of labor and we will plan to arrive when you think you need us. We are available by phone 24/7.

Because we want to work with you as partners in your care, we will explain what we are checking for and the results. If you don’t fully understand something, PLEASE ASK! During prenatal care we will be talking about how to plan and prepare for your upcoming birth. You will probably be reading and exploring options and you may want to write out a birth plan. Prenatal visits include ample time to talk.

If you choose to have your baby at home, we will visit you on the first few days after birth in your home to examine both you and the baby. We will do the newborn exam and give you any information you need about nursing and baby care. We will do follow up visits at 2-3 weeks and 6 weeks, more often if needed.