Each pregnancy is different and comes with new experiences. As your pregnancy unfolds, you might have some questions to ask your doctor during your prenatal appointments. Jot down the questions we supply below to ensure you and your doctor are on the same page throughout this journey.
With respect to your health and comfort, choosing the right obstetrician for your pregnancy is paramount. Asking questions during each trimester can help you get a feel for your doctor and how you can work with them throughout your pregnancy. And, let’s be honest, you probably have tons of questions already.
Questions for the First Trimester
The first trimester includes the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy. The heart and circulatory system, digestive system, and neural tube (that becomes the brain and spinal cord) all start to develop. By the end of this trimester, the eyes, ears, and limbs will start to form. This time also marks the beginning beats of the fetus’s heart. With so many changes happening to your body, asking questions can help put your mind at ease.
Here are a few questions worth asking your doctor:
- Which prenatal vitamin do you recommend?
- Which over-the-counter medications are safe?
- Do I need to stop taking any of my current medications?
- What activities can I do, and which should I avoid?
- Am I at risk of any complications?
- How much weight should I gain?
- Which symptoms are normal, and when should I call you?
While this isn’t an exhaustive list, it can help get you started.
Questions for the Second Trimester
Weeks 13-26 make up the second trimester of pregnancy. While most women start to feel better and have less morning sickness during this trimester, their body is still undergoing tremendous change. In these weeks, your uterus will begin to expand to accommodate your growing miracle. You might even feel some kicks or movement, and the fetus can start to hear your voice!
Here are a few questions to ask your doctor during your second-trimester prenatal appointments:
- What is my projected due date?
- Is spotting normal in this trimester?
- What complications can develop during this stage?
- Which tests should I have done?
- What should and shouldn’t I be eating?
- What kind of exercise can I do?
Questions for the Third Trimester
The third trimester will be the last few weeks (usually weeks 27-40) of your pregnancy. As your due date approaches, it’s time to start thinking about labor and delivery. The fetus will continue to grow as it gets ready for its big arrival. The lungs will mature, and the fetus will position itself for birth.
You’re so close! Here are some more questions you can ask your obstetrician:
- How can I tell if my contractions are Braxton Hicks or real?
- Will you be there for my whole delivery?
- What support is available if I choose to breastfeed?
- Can we talk about my birthing plan?
- Can we address post-partum depression?
- What happens if my water breaks in the middle of the night?
- Will I need a C-section?
Remember, you can never ask the wrong question. All questions are valid and necessary to keep you comfortable and healthy throughout this pregnancy. What other questions do you have for your doctor?
