Published on June 04, 2025

What to Expect from Your Prenatal Appointments

Image of a pregnant mom's belly being listened to with a stethoscope.

If you're expecting, it's natural to have a lot of questions. The journey of pregnancy can often feel both overwhelming and emotional. Attending your regular prenatal appointments can significantly alleviate many of your concerns.

“Prior to prenatal visits, it’s important when you’re considering getting pregnant to touch base with your doctor because a lot of times chronic medical conditions, or even vitamin deficiencies, can affect your ability to get pregnant and can affect the pregnancy early on,” explains Dr. David Hartfiel, OBGYN at MyMichigan Obstetrics and Gynecology in West Branch.

In a typical pregnancy, you can expect to have approximately 10 to 15 medical visits, depending on when you discover that you are pregnant and when your initial checkup is scheduled. For pregnancies that progress without complications, the frequency of prenatal appointments is generally as follows:

  • Weeks 4 to 28: Once a month
  • Weeks 28 to 36: Every other week
  • Week 36 until delivery: Every week

Prenatal visits play a crucial role in overseeing the well-being of both the mother and the developing baby during pregnancy. During these appointments, you can expect:

  • Routine Assessments: Regular evaluations will include monitoring your blood pressure, weight, and urine, along with blood tests as necessary.
  • Fetal Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may listen to the fetal heartbeat and assess the growth of your abdomen.
  • Glucose Testing: Around the 28-week mark, a glucose tolerance test may be administered to screen for gestational diabetes.
  • Visit Frequency: In the beginning, appointments are generally scheduled once a month, gradually increasing to weekly as your due date approaches.
  • Labor Preparation: Conversations regarding labor, delivery, and postpartum care are integral components of your prenatal care journey.

Honesty is essential during your prenatal appointments when asking and answering questions.

“Do not hesitate to discuss any feelings of stress, depression, or anxiety, or to disclose any drug or alcohol use, as this information is crucial for your doctor to know in order to ensure the best possible outcomes for both you and your child,” says Dr. Hartfiel.

Feel free to share any concerns with your doctor about your body changes, what to expect each month and during labor and delivery. If something bothers you, mention it at your next appointment or sooner if needed.

David Hartfiel, M.D., is an experienced obstetrician and gynecologist at MyMichigan Obstetrics & Gynecology, located at MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch. With over 20 years in the field, he provides personalized and compassionate care to women of all ages.