What is the primary focus of the first prenatal visit?

The primary focus of the first prenatal visit is to assess maternal health history and confirm pregnancy. During this visit, healthcare providers gather extensive information about the patient's medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, past pregnancies, medications, and family health history. This comprehensive assessment helps identify any potential risks or concerns that could affect the pregnancy.

Additionally, confirming the pregnancy through physical examination, lab tests, and possibly imaging is essential at this stage. This initial visit sets the foundation for future prenatal care, ensuring that the mother receives appropriate guidance and support tailored to her health needs.

While monitoring fetal health is crucial in subsequent visits, the first visit's main goal is to establish the mother's health and confirm that the pregnancy is viable. Education about labor and delivery and measuring fundal height are typically addressed in later visits as the pregnancy progresses.