Pregnancy is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey. Whether this is your first baby or you’ve done this before, regular prenatal visits are one of the best ways to keep you and your baby healthy.
Prenatal care helps catch problems early, supports a healthy pregnancy, and prepares you for delivery. During your prenatal visits, we monitor your baby’s growth, check your health, and answer any questions you have.
Studies show that high-quality prenatal care results in lower numbers of pregnancy-associated complications and increased satisfaction. At Desert Hills Care Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, Dr. Helard Ballon-Hennings and our staff are here to support you every step of the way.
Each trimester brings its own milestones and checkups, so it’s helpful to know what’s ahead. Let’s walk through what you can expect at your prenatal visits during each trimester.
The first trimester begins from the first day of your last menstrual period until the end of week 12. Here’s what to expect at your visits:
Your first visit is usually the longest. We go over your medical history, do a physical exam, and order routine blood and urine tests.
We confirm your pregnancy with a blood test or ultrasound scan.
We estimate your due date using the date of your last period or an early ultrasound.
We talk about healthy eating, exercise, and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco.
We ensure that you’re taking folic acid, which helps prevent birth defects.
We might offer early screenings for certain conditions, like genetic disorders.
You’ll usually visit us once a month during this trimester unless you have a higher-risk pregnancy and need more frequent check-ins.
Many women feel better during the second trimester. Morning sickness often fades, and you may start to feel your baby move. These months are about keeping an eye on your baby’s development and your well-being. Here’s what to expect at your visits:
We start measuring your belly to track your baby’s growth.
We can hear the baby’s heart quite clearly during the second trimester. Hearing your baby’s heartbeat is always a special moment.
Around 18–22 weeks, we do a detailed anatomy scan to check your baby’s development and find out the sex of your baby if you want to know.
Between weeks 24 and 28, we measure your blood sugar levels to check for gestational diabetes.
We continue checking your blood pressure and watching for complications like preeclampsia. We also monitor your mental health for signs of prenatal depression. This common problem is far easier to manage if caught early through comprehensive prenatal care.
As your body changes, you may have new questions about what’s normal and what’s not.
During the second trimester, visits usually occur about once a month unless Dr. Ballon-Hennings has any concerns that mean you need closer monitoring.
The third trimester is the home stretch. Your baby is growing quickly, and it’s time to start preparing for labor and delivery. Here’s what to expect at your visits:
You see us every two weeks from weeks 28 to 36, then weekly until delivery.
We help you create a plan that fits your needs and preferences.
We check if your baby is head-down and ready for birth.
Around 36-37 weeks, we test for this common bacteria that could infect your baby during delivery.
We explain what signs mean it’s time to head to the hospital or call the midwife.
As your due date approaches, we closely monitor your baby’s position, your health, and any signs that labor might be starting.
Pregnancy is full of changes, but you’re never alone in this journey. Our OB/GYN team provides you with expert care, answers your questions, and supports you and your growing baby at every stage.
Remember, no question is too small. Whether you’re wondering about safe exercises, handling morning sickness, or preparing for delivery, we’re here to help. Regular prenatal visits give you the information and reassurance you need for a healthy, confident pregnancy.
If you’re expecting a baby or planning to become pregnant, call the Desert Hills Care Center office to schedule your first prenatal visit or get in touch using the form on our Contact Page.
