Patient's question:
This is my first time being a mom. In a couple of days, I plan to go to the hospital with my husband for my first prenatal checkup. Since I haven't had one before, I don't have much experience, so I'd like to consult the doctor about what to expect during the first prenatal checkup.Doctor's answer:
The first prenatal check-up doesn't have strict recommendations. This mainly involves confirming pregnancy with a home pregnancy test, followed by visiting the hospital as soon as possible for blood tests to check if progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin levels are within the normal range. Then, after 35 days past the last menstrual period, an ultrasound can be used to observe the re-emergence of the gestational sac. After 42 days past the last menstrual period, an ultrasound can be used to observe the re-emergence of the fetal heartbeat and bud.