Dr. Ted Milligan in Wichita, Kansas

Knowing when to see an obstetrician helps you get the right care at the right time. This article outlines key touchpoints: preconception counseling; an initial prenatal visit around 6–8 weeks; trimester-based checkups that increase in frequency (monthly, then every 2–4 weeks, then weekly after 36 weeks); and milestone tests like first-trimester screening, the 18–22 week anatomy scan, gestational diabetes screening at 24–28 weeks, and vaccines such as Tdap at 27–36 weeks. It also explains when to seek urgent care—bleeding, severe pain, fluid leakage, decreased fetal movement, or signs of preeclampsia—and the importance of postpartum follow-up and mental health check-ins. Clear timelines support patients and caregivers in planning, asking the right questions, and partnering with clinicians for a safer, more confident pregnancy.