First examination during pregnancy: important questions to ask your gynecologist

Are you pregnant and have your first gynecological appointment coming up? Congratulations! The first examination during pregnancy is an exciting moment. It offers you the chance to ask important questions and learn more about your pregnancy. From confirming the pregnancy to discussing potential risks—this appointment lays the foundation for your prenatal care.

What Happens at the First Gynecologist Appointment During Pregnancy?

During your appointment, you’ll find out your estimated due date and receive your maternity record (Mutterpass). Your doctor will ask you about any pre-existing conditions and pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea. This examination helps ensure that your pregnancy is well-monitored right from the start.

What to Expect at the First Gynecological Examination

Your first gynecological appointment during pregnancy is an important milestone. It is divided into three main parts: medical history (anamnesis), physical examination, and laboratory tests.

Medical History (Anamnesis)

The anamnesis is a comprehensive discussion where your doctor collects important information about you and your pregnancy. You will be asked about your last period to calculate your estimated due date. There will also be questions about your health, family, and social environment. This helps identify potential risk factors for pregnancy complications. Be open and honest to receive the best possible care.

Physical Examination

During the physical examination, various measurements and tests are conducted:

• Weight and Height: These are recorded to calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI).
• Blood Pressure Measurement: Both low and high blood pressure can indicate potential problems.
• Urine Test: Your urine will be tested for protein, sugar, and bacteria.
• Blood Test: This includes determining hemoglobin levels, blood type, Rh factor, an antibody screen, and testing for rubella and hepatitis antibodies.
• Gynecological Examination: Your doctor will check your vagina and cervix for abnormalities.
• Palpation of the Uterus: The size and position of your uterus will be examined.
• Testing for Chlamydia and Syphilis, and possibly an HIV test.

These examinations help monitor your health and the development of your pregnancy.

Time for Questions

You probably have many questions before the appointment. It’s best to make a list so you don’t forget anything. Many women have questions about topics like:

• Sex during pregnancy: What should you be aware of?
• Sleep positions: How do you find the best position for a good night’s sleep despite a growing belly?
• Weight gain during pregnancy: How much weight should you expect to gain at each stage?
• Cosmetics and sunscreen during pregnancy: Which ingredients should you avoid?
• Medications during pregnancy: Which ones should you avoid? It’s best to note down in advance which medications you are currently taking.
• Should I take specially designed prenatal vitamins and supplements, and if so, which ones?
• Nutrition during pregnancy: Do I need a special diet? Which foods should I avoid, and which should I eat regularly?
• Can I still consume coffee, soda, beer, or wine, and if so, in what quantities is it safe?
• What physical activities are generally allowed during pregnancy?
• Do I need an exemption from work for activities that could endanger the unborn child?
• Gestational diabetes: How can you recognize the signs?**
• Birth preparation courses: When should you start them?
• Delivery: What different options are there?

Ultrasound Examination

The first ultrasound typically takes place between the 9th and 12th weeks of pregnancy. It is a special moment because you get to see the first picture of your baby! The ultrasound is used to:

• Confirm the pregnancy
• Check if the embryo has implanted in the uterus
• See the embryo's beating heart
• Assess the external body shape
• Detect possible abnormalities
• Calculate the embryo's age and the estimated due date
• Determine if it is a multiple pregnancy

Your doctor will explain everything to you during the examination. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if there is something you don’t understand.

Discuss Risk Factors and Pre-existing Conditions

At your first gynecological appointment, it is important to openly discuss any risk factors and pre-existing conditions. This information helps your doctor to optimally manage your pregnancy and identify potential risks early on.

Family History

Your family history can provide clues about possible risks. At your appointment, discuss:

• Genetic disorders in your family or your partner’s family
• Chromosomal abnormalities in previous children or in the family
• Frequent miscarriages or stillbirths in the family

If you or your partner carry a genetic disorder, or if one occurs in the family, genetic counseling may be advisable. This helps you better assess your individual risk.

Chronic Illnesses

Many chronic illnesses can affect pregnancy. It is important that your doctor is informed about the following conditions:

• Diabetes mellitus
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Thyroid disorders
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Autoimmune diseases like lupus or rheumatic diseases
• Multiple sclerosis
• Epilepsy
• HIV

Despite chronic illnesses, a complication-free pregnancy is often possible. For example, pregnancy can have a positive effect on the course of multiple sclerosis. The key is specialized medical care and, if necessary, adjustments to your medication.

Previous Pregnancies

Experiences from previous pregnancies can provide important insights for the current pregnancy. Share information about:

• Previous miscarriages or premature births
• Complications in previous deliveries
• Previous cesarean sections
• Babies with a birth weight over 4,000 grams
• Rh incompatibility in previous pregnancies

This information helps assess potential risks and, if necessary, take preventive measures.

Remember: Open communication is key to well-managed pregnancy care. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or express concerns. Together, you can plan the best care for you and your baby.

Questions About Pregnancy Planning

Calculating the Due Date

At your first gynecological appointment, your estimated due date will be calculated. On average, pregnancy lasts 266 days (38 weeks) from conception to birth. Since the exact day of conception is often unknown, the pregnancy duration is calculated from the first day of the last period. This adds 14 days, extending the pregnancy to 280 days (40 weeks). Maternity leave begins six weeks before the estimated due date.

It’s important to know that the calculated due date is only an estimate. Babies often arrive earlier or later. Reasons for a shorter or longer pregnancy vary individually.

Prenatal Check-ups

Prenatal check-ups are an important part of pregnancy care. They help detect potential health risks for you and your child early on. If you are legally insured, you are entitled to at least ten prenatal check-ups during your pregnancy.

The first check-up should take place as early as possible. It includes:

• Confirmation of pregnancy
• Detailed anamnesis
• General and gynecological examination
• Blood and urine tests
• Advice on nutrition, work, sports, and travel

In the following examinations, your blood pressure, weight, and urine will be checked regularly. The development of the baby will also be monitored.

Birth Options

It’s important to consider the different birth options early on. You can choose between:

• Delivery in a hospital
• Birth in a birthing center
• Home birth with a midwife

Find out about birth methods and processes in birth preparation courses. These are offered by midwives, birthing centers, clinics, or health centers.

Remember: Every pregnancy is unique. Your gynecological team will provide individualized advice and help you make the right decisions for you.

Conclusion

The first examination during pregnancy lays the foundation for your prenatal care. You will receive important information about your pregnancy and have the chance to ask all your questions. From the anamnesis and physical examinations to the first ultrasound—this appointment helps you get off to a good start in this special time.

Remember that every pregnancy is unique. Open communication with your gynecological team is key to a well-managed pregnancy. Together, you can make the best decisions for you and your baby and ensure the best possible support during your pregnancy. Enjoy this exciting time and don’t hesitate to seek support if you need it.