What Happens at Prenatal Care Appointments

By Robin Elise Weiss, LCCE, About.com Guide

Between 26-28 weeks of pregnancy you are likely to have another prenatal care appointment. You are still being seen monthly. Here is what a prenatal appointment may look like:

• Record your weight
• Urine sample to screen for sugar and protein
• Listen for baby's heart beat
• Measure your fundal height to check baby's growth
• Questions about baby's movements
• Check your blood pressure

Around this time in pregnancy you may have other tests ordered. Some may be specific to the point you are in pregnancy, like the Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) used to screen for gestational diabetes, while other tests or procedures are specific to you and your baby like the Rhogam shot around 28 weeks of gestation for women who are Rh negative. Your doctor or midwife may also give you information on screening for preterm labor on your own. So that you know what to do should you show signs of preterm labor.