Timeline

Thank you for choosing the physicians at Novant Health Mintview Women's Care to guide you through your pregnancy. The first few visits can be a little overwhelming. We would like you to use this handout as a guide to your pregnancy care. Remember that it is only a guide and care will often be individualized.

If you need to be seen between these routine visits, then let our staff know. We will be happy to accommodate your needs.

We count the weeks of a pregnancy from the first day of your last menstrual period (LMP) even though you probably did not conceive until two weeks after that date. This a standard definition because it is usually easier to know the LMP than the exact day of ovulation or conception. Most pregnancies are between 38 and 42 weeks. Your due date (EDC = Estimated Date of Confinement) is 40 weeks after your LMP, but most people don't deliver on their due date. Your due date will be confirmed or changed based on your FIRST ultrasound (US). After your first ultrasound your EDC should not change.

We encourage you to ask questions during your visits and encourage you to bring a list of questions. If you have questions between visits, our staff can answer them during office hours. If you have an urgent question or a true emergency outside of office hours, a nurse is available 24 hours a day by calling 704-377-5675. The will doctor - on - call will be consulted if needed. Questions about over-the-counter medications also can be answered by your pharmacist.

You will see only your primary doctor for the first half of the pregnancy. If your primary doctor no longer delivers babies (Dr. Porter), we will ask you to select a primary OB doctor. We do this so that each patient has one doctor with whom they will have a close relationship. This doctor will provide continuity and be responsible for any difficult or confusing situations if they arise. We understand that any patient may want to change primary OB doctors once she has met all of the doctors. We encourage you to see the doctor with whom you are most comfortable. You can let any of the doctors or staff know if you would like us to "list" a different doctor as your "primary OB doctor" at any time.

On occasion the doctor you are scheduled to see may be out of the office for a delivery. If this happens, you might be seen only by a medical assistant. If you have questions or concerns that need to be answered by a doctor, you may always wait for the on call doctor to return. We will also make every effort to have another Ob doctor in the office work you into their schedule. If your concern can be handled over the phone, the OB doctor on call can also phone you later. Sometimes the office assistant will recommend that you wait to see the doctor based on your evaluation or concerns.