When should I see the doctor once I think I'm pregnant?

When should I see the doctor once I think I'm pregnant?

Jay Goldberg (Obstetrician/Gynecologist, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center) gives expert video advice on: What are signs I may be pregnant?; How do I know if my pregnancy symptoms are normal?; When should I see the doctor once I think I'm pregnant?

People who are trying to get pregnant are often very excited when they get pregnant, so they like to come into the doctor right away. Doctors are always happy to see you; most doctors are. The truth is, we really don't like to see you before about 6 to 8 weeks because when you come in at 4 to 5 weeks all we can really offer you is a blood test. An ultrasound won't show anything at 4 or 5 weeks. Starting at 6 weeks you can sometimes see a little sack inside the uterus, but you can't really see a baby, a foetus, or a heartbeat until after 6 weeks. So, if we get you to come in at 7 weeks, then we're a little bit more able to provide you with information you can go home with, walking on cloud nine. Before that it's a little bit more difficult, so hold off until about 7 to 8 weeks.