After your first positive pregnancy test, most OB/GYNs will see you within 8 weeks after your last menstrual cycle.

When looking for an OB/GYN, your primary care physician can be a great resource to find a provider who suits your care needs. You can outline your important considerations and find an OB/GYN who fits those criteria. Here are some examples of things to ask about a potential OB/GYN:

• Are they in-network? If not—or if you do not have insurance—what are their rates, and can you afford to see them?

• Is their practice conveniently located?

• What is their perspective on care issues important to me? 

• If you have a chronic condition or a family history of problems during childbirth—does this physician have experience with patients with the same concerns? 

By answering these questions, you can be on the way to finding the right OB/GYN for you.

Seeing your physician frequently will aid in having a healthy pregnancy. You can discuss with your OB/GYN what schedule is right for you. For example, if you’re having twins, more visits will be necessary to assure that both twins are developing healthily. Your schedule of OB/GYN visits might look something like this:

• 4 weeks to 28 weeks: monthly visits

• 28 weeks to 36 weeks: one visit every two weeks

• 36 weeks to 40 weeks: weekly visits

Every pregnancy is different. At Dignity Health Medical Group, our OB/GYNs will work with you on an individual basis to make sure that you receive quality prenatal care on the right schedule.

Make sure to first understand why you’re going to see your OB/GYN. Is it for your yearly wellness visit or to discuss a specific concern such as birth control, testing for sexually transmitted infections, or other concerns with your vaginal health? This is also the perfect time to ask your OB/GYN any questions you may have. Prepare a list of things you’ve been wanting to know so you can discuss them with your OB/GYN.