For those who are used to visiting their healthcare providers once a year, pregnancy presents a big change. You’re growing a human being, after all! Tufts Health Plan covers prenatal visits as preventive care.
Conception to 28 weeks
For the first several months of pregnancy, you’ll visit with your provider every four weeks or so. The first prenatal visit usually happens around 8 weeks. This first visit will likely be the longest. You’ll undergo a variety of tests and measurements to confirm the pregnancy and screen for potential issues, go over your medical history, and learn your due date. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask your healthcare provider any questions you might have.
Each following appointment will likely be shorter, though there will be parts that don’t change. You’ll probably have your weight and blood pressure measured, and may provide a urine sample, at every visit. You’ll also always have the opportunity to ask your healthcare provider any questions you might have.
Other appointments might involve additional testing, but for the most part, you can expect similar visits throughout pregnancy.
28 to 36 weeks
Beginning at 28 weeks, you’ll probably start attending prenatal visits every two weeks. These visits will probably go similarly to your early visits, with your provider continuing to check your baby’s heartbeat and positioning.
Around this point, it might be a good idea to start looking into birthing classes, and decide which method of feeding you’d like to try. Depending on your benefits and coverage, your Tufts Health Together health plan may offer coverage for both birthing classes, and lactation support (should you need it).
36 weeks on
Starting at this time, you’ll probably start visiting your healthcare provider on a weekly basis. The familiar tests and measurements will continue, and they may start checking for cervical dilation. You’ll also be tested for group B strep around 36 weeks.
It’s important to note that not every woman or healthcare provider follows this schedule. Some providers may recommend less frequent visits, especially earlier on. But depending on your risk factors, it’s possible that you may see a provider more than the regular schedule.
Reach out to Member Services to learn more about your covered benefits.
Tufts Health Together members can call 888-257-1985 (TTY: 711) or tap here to learn more online about your benefits.
Tufts Health RITogether members can call 866-738-4116 (TTY: 711) or tap here to learn more online about your benefits.
Tufts Health Direct members can call 888-257-1985 (TTY: 711) or tap here to learn more online about your benefits.
