Prenatal Checklist

A prenatal checklist to guide your care and preparation trimester by trimester.

Published July 1, 2026

As soon as you find out

Call to schedule your first prenatal appointment.
Start a prenatal vitamin with folic acid as directed.
Stop alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs.
Review current medications and supplements with your provider.
Do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.
Note the first day of your last period to help estimate your due date.
Check your health insurance and maternity coverage.

First trimester (weeks 1 to 13)

Attend your first prenatal visit and confirm your due date.
Complete initial blood and urine tests as advised.
Discuss optional first-trimester genetic screening.
Ask about managing nausea, fatigue and food safety.
Begin gentle, provider-approved exercise and good sleep habits.
Decide who to tell and when you feel ready.

Second trimester (weeks 14 to 27)

Attend regular checkups and track blood pressure and growth.
Have the anatomy ultrasound around the midpoint.
Complete glucose screening for gestational diabetes as scheduled.
Ask about a Tdap vaccine and any others your provider recommends.
Start researching childbirth and breastfeeding classes.
Begin a baby budget and any registry planning.

Third trimester (weeks 28 to birth)

Attend more frequent appointments as your provider directs.
Discuss your birth preferences and pain relief options.
Confirm your group B strep test near the end of pregnancy.
Learn the signs of labor and when to call or go in.
Pack your hospital or birth-center bag.
Install and check the infant car seat before the due date.

Healthy lifestyle throughout

Eat balanced meals and stay well hydrated.
Stay active with provider-approved movement most days.
Prioritize rest and consistent sleep.
Practice food safety and avoid foods your provider flags.
Manage stress with support, rest and gentle routines.
Keep all prenatal appointments and follow-up tests.

Planning and preparation

Choose your pediatrician and confirm they take your insurance.
Set up the nursery basics and a safe sleep space.
Arrange parental leave and care logistics with your employer.
Line up postpartum support from family or friends.
Prepare a feeding plan to discuss with your provider.
Important: This is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your OB-GYN or midwife, and contact them with any questions or concerns about your pregnancy.

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A prenatal checklist is a trimester-by-trimester guide to pregnancy care and preparation, covering your appointments, prenatal vitamins, the tests and screenings to expect, healthy lifestyle habits, and the planning ahead for birth and baby. It helps you stay organized from your first positive test to your due date.

Pregnancy involves a lot of moving parts, and it is easy to lose track of when things happen. Grouping tasks by trimester keeps each stage manageable and helps you ask the right questions at the right time.

Use it as a running list, checking items off at each visit and adding notes for your provider. It is written in plain language for new parents and first-time moms.

Print it for your pregnancy folder or download the PDF to keep on your phone. Every pregnancy is different, so use these general reminders alongside the personalized care of your OB-GYN or midwife.

FAQ

When should I schedule my first prenatal appointment?

Many providers see you around 8 weeks, but call as soon as you have a positive test so they can advise on timing. If you have a medical condition or concern, your OB-GYN or midwife may want to see you sooner.

How often are prenatal appointments?

A common schedule is roughly every 4 weeks early on, every 2 to 3 weeks in the late second trimester, and weekly near the end. Your provider sets the schedule based on your individual pregnancy.

What tests can I expect during pregnancy?

Typical care includes blood tests, urine checks, blood pressure monitoring, an ultrasound, glucose screening for gestational diabetes, and optional genetic screening. Your provider explains which apply to you and when.

When should I take prenatal vitamins?

General guidance is to start a prenatal vitamin with folic acid as early as possible, ideally before or as soon as you learn you are pregnant. Confirm the right choice with your OB-GYN or midwife.

Can I download this prenatal checklist as a PDF?

Yes. You can print it for your pregnancy folder or download it as a PDF, so first-time moms have a trimester-by-trimester reference to bring to appointments.