During pregnancy visiting your doctor regularly is very important. Regular check-ups throughout the nine months of pregnancy is called prenatal care. This consistent care will keep you and your baby healthy, spot problems if they occur and prevent difficulties during delivery.

Become a partner with your doctor to manage your care. Keep all of your appointments — every one is important! Ask questions and read to educate yourself about this exciting time.

Your doctor or midwife will give you a schedule for your prenatal visits. An average pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks. You can expect to see your doctor more often as you approach the end of your pregnancy. A typical schedule includes visiting your doctor or midwife:

• about once each month during your first six months of pregnancy
• every two weeks during the seventh and eighth month of pregnancy
• weekly in the ninth month of pregnancy.

If you are over 35 years old or your pregnancy is high risk because you have certain health problems (like diabetes or high blood pressure), your doctor or midwife will probably want to see you more often.

The first time you see your doctor you'll probably have a pelvic exam to check your uterus (womb) and to have a Pap tests. After the first visit, most prenatal visits will include:

• checking the baby's heart rate
• checking your blood pressure
• checking your urine for signs of diabetes
• measuring your weight gain

While you are pregnant your doctor or midwife may suggest a number of laboratory tests, ultrasound exams, or other screening tests. Read on to find out the basics of the most common tests done during pregnancy.