Prenatal Care: What to Expect During Each Trimester

posted: Jul. 17, 2024.

Prenatal care ensures a healthy pregnancy and a positive outcome for both mother and baby. Each trimester can bring on new developments and changes and you must have an understanding of what may happen as your baby continues to develop and grow inside you. Understanding what to expect during each trimester of pregnancy can help expectant mothers navigate the journey with confidence and peace of mind.

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12)

During the first trimester, prenatal care will focus on confirming the pregnancy, assessing overall health, and establishing a foundation for a healthy pregnancy. Key aspects of prenatal care during the first trimester include:

Confirmation of pregnancy through a urine or blood test.
Initial prenatal visit with a healthcare provider to discuss medical history, lifestyle factors, and prenatal care options.
Ultrasound to confirm gestational age, assess fetal development, and detect any potential issues.
Screening tests for genetic disorders, such as Down syndrome and neural tube defects, if desired.
Guidance on nutrition, prenatal vitamins, exercise, and lifestyle modifications to support a healthy pregnancy.
Monitoring of symptoms such as morning sickness, fatigue, and mood changes.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26)

The second trimester is often referred to as the "golden period" of pregnancy, characterized by reduced nausea and increased energy. Prenatal care during the second trimester focuses on continued monitoring of maternal and fetal health, as well as additional screening tests. Key aspects of prenatal care during the second trimester include:

Regular prenatal visits to monitor fetal growth, maternal health, and any potential complications.
Routine prenatal tests, including blood tests, urine tests, and ultrasound scans, to assess fetal development and screen for abnormalities.
Anatomy ultrasound to evaluate fetal anatomy and confirm the absence of structural abnormalities.
A glucose screening test for gestational diabetes is typically performed between weeks 24 and 28.
Continued guidance on nutrition, weight gain, exercise, and childbirth education classes.

Third Trimester (Weeks 27-Birth)

The third trimester is the home stretch! The third trimester is a time of anticipation as expectant mothers prepare for childbirth and parenthood. During the third trimester, prenatal care focuses on monitoring fetal growth, preparing for labor and delivery, and addressing any concerns or complications that may arise. Key aspects of prenatal care during the third trimester include:

Regular prenatal visits every two to four weeks to monitor fetal movement, fetal position, and maternal health.
Screening tests for Group B streptococcus (GBS) colonization, a common bacterium that can affect newborns during childbirth.
Discussions about birth preferences, labor options, pain management, and breastfeeding.
Preparation for childbirth through childbirth education classes, labor coaching, and creating a birth plan.
Monitoring for signs of preterm labor, preeclampsia, and other pregnancy complications.