Pregnancy Checkups at 33 Weeks: What to Expect

Question
I'm 33 wks preg. what should my doctor visit's look like now?
are we just looking for a heart beat? the size of my belly? and the number of
kicks?

it's my first time. and i just wonder if there should be more to these two week
apart visits than a heart beat...

thanks  

Answer
Dear Charlotte,

You do essentially the same things you have done thus far - weight, assessing blood pressure, do a urinalysis, fundal height (measuring belly), listening for fetal heart tones, asking about kick counts, etc,..., however your doctor will also be checking the position of your baby and soon will begin to check your cervix for any dilation or thinning out in preparation for labor and delivery. He/she also closely monitors for any complications you have or may develop. At about 36 weeks, you will usually start to see the doctor every week up until the time you deliver.

The goal of these prenatal visits is to see how your pregnancy is proceeding and to provide you with information to help keep you and your baby healthy. Don't be afraid to ask questions and raise any concerns. Jot down notes between visits so you won't forget when the visit day comes. Any doctor worth his salt won't mind this a bit and will be happy to calm your anxieties. Those anxieties are perfectly natural for a first time mom!

I hope this has helped you and answered your questions. I wish you well.

Brenda