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Pregnancy Check-Ups
Translated by Olja Arsic - Graduated translator English, Italian and Serbocroatian oljaarsic@hotmail.com
A gynaecological check-up includes a check of the general health of the pregnant woman. By using the case history the doctor will find out whether there are hereditary pathologies in the family or any kind of illness that can be dangerous during pregnancy (for example if the parents have diabetes or arterial hypertension). After that the doctor will ask questions about menstrual cycles, previous pregnancies (pregnancy course, any complications and type of delivery), or surgical intervention (especially if gynaecological), and previous and present pathologies.
The gynaecological check up involves visual inspection of the external genitalia and palpation of the internal ones, in order to check their shape, consistency, volume or painful spots. The check-up includes the use of a speculum which is to be inserted into the vagina to examine the cervix and internal walls of the vagina, as well as any vaginal discharge that may indicate the presence of infection. In this way all the organs of the reproductive system can be examined except the Fallopian tubes which cannot be palpated. Any inflammation, uterine or ovarian anomalies (fibromas, cysts) can be found in this way. The gynaecologist will check blood pressure and perform Pap test for cervical cancer or certain infections (for example HPV or herpes virus). In this way any problem found, can be cured and eliminated in time.
First visit
You should see your gynaecologist immediately after the missed menstruation, within the first month of pregnancy. On that occasion you should take with you: - the pregnancy test you have already carried out - last Pap-smear results, - blood tests performed before you were pregnant, - blood group, - documentation of any previous pregnancies, - medical records or tests relating to any past or present illness, - list of any medicines you are currently taking.
During the visit the doctor will: - ascertain the state of pregnancy and will perform an ultrasound examination if required, - exclude any alteration of the genital system or of the breasts, - perform a Pap-test (if it has not been performed recently) - obtain personal and family history, making sure that there are no negative conditions that could affect the pregnancy, - check your weight and blood pressure, - order tests to be done for next visit, - provide advice, information or treatment.
Subsequent visits
Subsequent visits should be done once a month unless there are some pathologies requiring more frequent visits.
During these visits the doctor will: - ask for information about your personal well-being, - check your last tests, - check your weight and blood pressure, - monitor the growth of your uterus, the state of the cervix, the baby's heartbeat, - order tests and treatment if required, - provide advice and information.