First Pregnancy Appointment: What to Expect and Questions to Ask Your Provider
Heading into Your First Pregnancy Appointment
Things can feel both exciting and overwhelming.
Questions start swirling. What will they ask? What decisions will I need to make? Am I supposed to already know what I want? As an evidence-based midwife, I want you to know this from the start. You do NOT need to have everything figured out. Preparation is not about perfection. It is about walking in informed, confident, and supported.
If You Feel Nervous about Your First Pregnancy Appointment
That is completely normal.
Many first-time parents worry they will say the wrong thing, miss an important question, or leave feeling more confused than when they arrived. Others assume the first visit is purely medical and forget that it is also the beginning of a relationship.
Your first prenatal appointment sets the tone for your entire pregnancy. It is your opportunity to understand your options, learn how care decisions are made, and determine whether your provider truly aligns with your values.
Your first prenatal appointment isn’t just something to check off on your calendar…
In Episode 21 of my podcast, I break down exactly what to expect, how to choose the right provider (or switch), the importance of creating a strong foundation from the beginning, and things you should ask early on (even if you’re afraid).
What to Expect with an Evidence-Based Provider at Your First Pregnancy Appointment
An evidence-based first prenatal visit is about more than measurements and lab work. It is about education, partnership, and informed choice.
You can typically expect:
🩵 A review of your health history and previous pregnancies, if any
🩵 Confirmation of pregnancy and estimated due date
🩵 Discussion of lab work and screening options
🩵 Time to ask questions and share your goals
🩵 An overview of how care will look throughout pregnancy
Most importantly, you should expect to feel heard. An evidence-based provider welcomes questions and explains recommendations clearly.
How to Prepare Before Your First Prenatal Appointment
Preparation helps you feel grounded and confident. Here are practical steps I recommend before your visit.
1. Reflect on Your Values
Before walking in, take time to think about what matters most to you.
Ask yourself:
What does a supportive pregnancy experience look like to me?
How do I want decisions to be made?
What fears or concerns do I already have?
You do not need final answers. Awareness is enough to start meaningful conversations.
2. Write Down Your Questions
In the moment, it is easy to forget what you wanted to ask.
Bring a short list, such as:
How do you approach informed consent?
How much time do appointments typically allow?
What is your philosophy on interventions and low-risk pregnancy?
How do you support physiologic birth?
There are no silly questions. Curiosity is good!
3. Learn the Basics Ahead of Time
Understanding some foundational information helps you participate actively rather than passively.
This might include:
Basic pregnancy physiology
Common prenatal tests and why they are offered
Your right to accept or decline screening
Education reduces fear and increases confidence.
Using Your First Pregnancy Appointment to Practice Advocacy
Your first visit is a great place to start practicing advocacy in a low-pressure setting.
Try:
🩵 Asking for clarification if something feels rushed
🩵 Requesting time to think about optional testing
🩵 Saying, "I would like to learn more before deciding"
These small moments build confidence for later decision-making during pregnancy and birth.
Advocacy is not confrontation. It is communication!'
My Perspective as a Midwife
I believe the first prenatal appointment should feel calm, informative, and collaborative.
You deserve care that respects your autonomy and supports your ability to make informed choices from day one.
When parents feel empowered early in pregnancy, they are more likely to trust their bodies, ask questions, and feel confident navigating decisions later on. That confidence begins with preparation and education.
Ready to Feel Confident Walking Into Your First Appointment?
Knowing what to expect during your first pregnancy appointment allows you to walk in with clarity instead of anxiety. Preparation helps you build a strong foundation for the rest of your pregnancy and your eventual birth experience.
If you are early in pregnancy and want support from a midwife who values evidence-based care, autonomy, and partnership, I would love to connect.
What is one question you want answered at your first pregnancy appointment?
