Preparing for prenatal care

Arrange care early

Contact a qualified maternity care professional when you know you are pregnant to discuss getting started. ACOG recommends beginning prenatal care in the first trimester. You do not need to wait for a particular week in an app, and urgent symptoms need attention separately from routine booking. [1]

What to bring

If available, bring the first day of your last period, a list of medicines and supplements, vaccination information and relevant medical or pregnancy history. Tell the care team if a date is uncertain. These details support a conversation; you are not expected to have every answer. [1]

A symptom note can be simple: when it started, what it feels like, whether it is changing and what you want to ask. Do not spend time completing a record when you need medical help.

Your visit schedule can be individual

The right plan depends on medical needs, circumstances and conversations with your care team. ACOG's tailored-care guidance includes attention to social needs and shared decisions about how care is delivered. A generic schedule is not a substitute for that plan. [2]

Ask who will explain results, how to reach them and what happens if the plan changes. It is reasonable to ask for an explanation again or to write it down in your own words.

Use a record to support the conversation

Dela's pregnancy view can hold the dates, notes and visits you choose to add. It does not review your symptoms, monitor fetal wellbeing or decide whether you need care. Follow the dates and advice established by your clinician.