Second and Third-Trimester Prenatal Care: What to Expect

As your pregnancy progresses into the second and third trimesters, your prenatal care visits will become more frequent and involve additional testing and monitoring. Here's what you can expect during your second and third-trimester prenatal care:

1. Physical exam: You will receive a physical exam at each prenatal visit, including measurements of your blood pressure, weight, and belly size.

2. Fetal monitoring: Your healthcare provider will monitor your baby's heartbeat and movements during prenatal visits to ensure that they are growing and developing properly.

3. Ultrasound: Additional ultrasounds may be performed during the second and third trimesters to check for any abnormalities or complications and to monitor fetal growth and development.

4. Glucose screening: Between weeks 24 and 28, you will be screened for gestational diabetes, a temporary form of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy.

5. Group B strep screening: Between weeks 35 and 37, you will be screened for Group B strep, a type of bacteria that can be harmful to newborns during delivery.

6. Kick counts: Starting around 28 weeks, you will be encouraged to track your baby's movements and report any significant changes to your healthcare provider.

7. Prenatal classes: Your healthcare provider may recommend prenatal classes to help you prepare for labor and delivery and to provide guidance on caring for your newborn.

8. Labor and delivery planning: Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a birth plan and discuss options for pain management and delivery.

9. Follow-up appointments: Your prenatal visits will become more frequent as you approach your due date, and your healthcare provider will discuss options for induction or C-section if necessary.

By receiving regular prenatal care during the second and third trimesters, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery for both you and your baby. Don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider any questions or concerns you may have during your prenatal visits.