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Pregnancy Frequently Asked Questions

​How likely am I to get pregnant each month, and when should I seek help?

The chance of spontaneous pregnancy each month is typically between 15-25%, depending on your age. By tracking ovulation, you can increase those odds to about 35% chance in one month, 70% in 3 months, 80% in 6 months, and 90% by one year. For a woman younger than 35, it’s generally reasonable to wait a year before seeking assistance whereas for those 35 or older it’s preferable to seek help after only 6 months because of egg quality changes in that age range.

When should I come in for my first pregnancy appointment? 

Typically, we schedule a first visit about 7 weeks after the start of your last menstrual cycle. This allows for enough development of the pregnancy to confirm its location inside of the uterus as well as to see the baby and its heartbeat on a transvaginal ultrasound.​

How often are appointments and ultrasounds during pregnancy?​

Generally, appointments are every 4 weeks until around 28 weeks, then every 2 weeks until around 36 weeks, then weekly until delivery. If you or your baby have other conditions that can affect your pregnancy, then you may be seen more often for visits. You can expect an ultrasound at your first visit to confirm how far along you are and at 20 weeks to assess the full anatomy of your baby. Other ultrasounds may be done at your provider’s discretion such as a growth ultrasound during the third trimester.

​When is my due date, and when am I full term?

Your due date is at 40 weeks gestation. Once established at an early visit, your due date won’t change regardless of whether your later ultrasounds show a baby growing faster or slower than average. A full term pregnancy happens after completion of 37 weeks of pregnancy.

​What are the benefits of breastfeeding and should I do it?

For baby, breastmilk can be more easily digested, pass along maternal antibodies, reduce risk of asthma/allergies, decrease odds of ear and respiratory infection, and potentially protect against childhood obesity. For mom, breastfeeding can help with postpartum weight loss, decrease postpartum bleeding, reduce risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and it can also save some money that would be otherwise spent on formula. Even though this process may come easily to some mothers, for others it can be a source of stress and anxiety, so be sure to address any concerns with your provider.