Be organized. Write down all your questions as you think of them, so you’ll be well prepared for your next visit. Keeping track of your questions, progress, and feelings will ensure that you don’t forget important information that you want to share with your provider. Many practices teach pregnant women how to check their own weight and urine and to record this information on their prenatal record after they check in with the receptionist. This allows more time to communicate and build trust with the pregnant woman's provider.

Let this be a learning experience. Ask your provider about routine teaching, or teaching done at each stage of pregnancy during your prenatal visits. Nutrition should be addressed at every visit, especially if there is inadequate weight gain or fetal growth. Be sure you understand about signs of preterm labor. Learn how to monitor fetal movement. Discuss whether or not you should have a birth plan and what this should include. Ask about management of pain in labor. Find out what is considered routine management. Know what your options are, including their benefits and risks.

Follow-up is essential. Ask about the results of routine tests, such as urinalysis and blood pressure readings, as well as any other lab tests or ultrasounds you may take. While the results are probably normal, it's wise to double-check and part of taking responsibility for your own care. That also applies to asking why your healthcare provider has asked you to take a certain test.

Let's talk. While it's important to understand what is happening to your body, it's also important to be in touch with your emotions during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can help you deal with the myriad of feelings both you and your partner may be experiencing. Talk about your hopes and dreams for your baby's birth, as well as your fears and concerns.

Be aware of the quality and quantity of time. If your provider appears rushed or busy, ask to schedule another visit with her to discuss your concerns. You should leave your visits feeling emotionally satisfied and reassured.

Ask tough questions. A woman should feel comfortable enough with her healthcare provider to ask awkward questions or to discuss personal issues that are worrying her. Remember that experienced healthcare providers understand that pregnancy is much more than a physical condition. Frankly, they have seen, heard and dealt with most issues, so don't feel like you are the only one who feels a certain way. But they can't help you if you don't tell what is worrying you.
Be honest and direct about these concerns so that your healthcare provider can give you the best possible support. A good healthcare professional will not judge you or your situation. Their role is to make sure that your pregnancy and delivery are healthy and satisfying. If you anticipate that you will need extra time (for a lengthy discussion of an awkward question or personal problem), ask to schedule a longer appointment for your next visit so that the provider isn't rushed and can fully address the issues.

* Excerpts taken from “Making the Most of Prenatal Visits,” by Steffie Goodman, Every Baby magazine, Issue One.