2nd Trimester: 3rd Prenatal Visit

Medically Reviewed by Traci C. Johnson, MD on June 09, 2023
3 min read

Congratulations! You're into the second half of your pregnancy. This is an exciting time as you feel your babies' stronger kicks and movement. At today's appointment, your doctor will test you to see if you've developed gestational diabetes. You'll learn more about the upcoming birth, and as always, your doctor will chart your progress and answer your questions.

Your doctor will screen you for gestational diabetes. This type of diabetes only develops during pregnancy. For the test, you'll drink a sweet beverage, wait in the doctor's office for an hour or two -- depending on which test is chosen -- and then have your blood drawn. If the results suggest gestational diabetes, you may need to have an additional three-hour test to confirm the diagnosis.

For twins that have separate placentas, your doctor will begin monitoring the babies by ultrasound every 4 weeks to track how well they're growing. If you're carrying twins that share a placenta, your doctor will use ultrasound every 4 weeks to track how well your babies are growing and, every 2 weeks, will also check for TTS.

Also during this visit, your doctor will:

  • Check your weight and blood pressure
  • Measure the height of your uterus to gauge your babies' growth
  • Check your babies' heart rate
  • Ask if your babies' movements are occurring about as often as your last appointment
  • Ask you to leave a urine sample to check sugar and protein levels

 

Your doctor will help you prepare for labor and your newborn months before you actually deliver. Be ready to discuss:

  • Childbirth options. Your doctor will explain vaginal delivery and C-sections. Some women choose to have elective cesarean delivery even though most experts feel there is no medical reason to do so. If you are considering this type of delivery, your doctor will explain the benefits and risks. You'll learn about your options for pain management during delivery. Your doctor may also prepare you just in case your babies need an assisted birth. For instance, they may describe the use of forceps or vacuum extraction.
  • Childbirth classes. Childbirth classes are an important component of prenatal care, especially for first-time parents. Often these classes fill up fast, so you should get started soon to find the right class for you. You can take private or group lessons from a registered nurse or doula (someone who is trained to help women through childbirth). These are often offered at hospitals. You may learn breathing techniques and other coping mechanisms to use during labor. These classes should include both parents, so be sure to find a class that fits both of your schedules.
  • Baby education classes. You can take private or group classes to learn how to hold a newborn, change a diaper, bathe, burp, soothe, and swaddle your babies. Your doctor may recommend taking a class during your 3rd trimester, so you'll need to sign up soon. Some classes may focus on twins.

 

  • What increases the risk for gestational diabetes?
  • Can I get gestational diabetes later in my pregnancy?
  • Can I control gestational diabetes without insulin shots?
  • How can gestational diabetes affect my babies and me?
  • Are childbirth or baby education classes mandatory?
  • Do you recommend private or group classes?
  • Are there any sports I should avoid at this point?