Prenatal Care
Feel prepared and confident throughout pregnancy and postpartum with clear guidance and compassionate care from OB-GYNs and certified nurse-midwives.
Your guide to pregnancy, birth and postpartum
You’re pregnant (the test said so). Now it’s time to schedule your first prenatal appointment. Calling as soon as you’ve recovered from the initial excitement is best. At WHA, we typically schedule three initial prenatal care visits: a telehealth intake appointment, an OB appointment at 8 weeks and another in-person visit at 12 weeks. Your provider’s office will guide you on the timing based on the date of your last menstrual period.
If you’re just thinking about pregnancy—or actively trying to conceive—consider scheduling a preconception appointment now. Preconception planning goes beyond timing; it involves ensuring your physical and reproductive health are in the best possible shape to lay a strong foundation for a healthy pregnancy. We’re always welcoming new patients, so schedule your prenatal care visit today.
Pregnancy can feel like a whirlwind, even though it spans about 40 weeks. But knowing what to expect along the way makes things a little easier. Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each lasting around 13 weeks or about three months.
First trimester: We’ll see you via a telehealth intake visit after your positive pregnancy test, then again at your first OB visit at about 8 weeks to review your medical history, discuss genetic screening, testing and counseling, determine your estimated due date and perform a transvaginal ultrasound. We’ll check in again at 12 weeks for a physical exam, collect recommended labs and review formal ultrasound results.
Second trimester: We’ll continue to see you monthly unless more frequent check-ins are needed. Around 18-20 weeks, you’ll have your fetal anatomy ultrasound, which is typically the last ultrasound unless there’s a medical reason for more. We’ll screen for gestational diabetes between 26-28 weeks. The second trimester can also be an ideal time to check in with our perinatal behavioral health specialists if you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed or just not yourself.
Third trimester: We’ll typically see you twice a month until week 36, then weekly until delivery. This is a busy time! You will probably:
- Take a Portland birth preparation class
- Make and discuss your birth plan
- Choose a Portland pediatric provider
- Get a Tdap shot (recommended for you and those living with baby)
- Pre-register with the hospital for your labor and delivery
- Consider contraception options after birth (your provider can discuss options)
- Research lactation support
- Pack for the hospital
- Plan newborn decisions (like circumcision)
Fourth Trimester/Postpartum: At WHA, your care doesn’t end at delivery. In the fourth trimester, which covers the first three months of your baby’s life outside the womb and the start of your parenthood journey, we offer follow-up visits tailored to your physical and emotional recovery. Typically, this includes two appointments: the first around three weeks after birth (your postpartum visit) and another around eight weeks, which serves as a complete wellness visit. If postpartum mood changes persist beyond the “baby blues,” our perinatal mental health team is always here to support you.
When selecting an obstetric care provider, the first thing to check is credentials and experience. At WHA, you have two excellent prenatal care options: OB-GYN physicians or certified nurse-midwives. All of our doctors are board-certified in OB-GYN, or for those physicians who have recently finished their residency, will become board-certified within three years of joining our practice. Similarly, all of WHA’s nurse midwives are certified through the American Midwifery Certification Board.
Our OB-GYNs specialize in comprehensive prenatal care, supporting low- and moderate-risk pregnancies. They’re trained to identify and manage complications, including performing cesarean deliveries when needed. A pregnancy may be considered moderate risk if you have conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or a history of pregnancy complications, meaning your care requires closer monitoring and specialized support.
Certified nurse-midwives are experts in low-risk pregnancy and birth but are also trained to recognize and manage certain types of complications, either alone or in partnership with an OB-GYN. They support a wide range of birth plans, including people planning low-intervention, un-medicated births and those who know they want or decide to have an epidural for pain management.
Not sure which provider is right for you? We’re here to talk through your options and help you choose.
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Additional Resources
Accepted Insurance
WHA takes Medicaid, Medicare and most commercial insurance plans. Check the list of insurance companies WHA is contracted with here.
ACOG Disorders of the Vulva
From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, answers to frequently asked questions about vulvar health and care options.
ACOG Patient Resources
From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, find links to frequently asked questions on a wide range of women's health, pregnancy and childbirth and gynecology questions.
Advocates for Youth
Online resources for parents.
Anemia in Pregnancy
Michael P. Smrtka, MD. Perinatal Progress, Volume 9, Number 1. April, 2016.
Antenatal Surveillance Guidelines
July 2021
Approach for Determining Gestational Age
August 2013
Baby Center
A comprehensive online resource for pregnancy and parenting, offering expert articles, week-by-week guides, community forums and tools.
Bedsider
A website about birth control and STDs.
Billing and Collection Practices
What you need to know--before you need to know it.
Billing and Payments During Pregnancy
Expecting parents often have questions about how much care may cost, how much they may be responsible for and when payments will be due. Here's a handy summary of how it all works!
Breastfeeding Articles
It's International Breastfeeding Week and we've collected all of our past blog articles here.
CDC.gov
The website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – this is a great resource for vaccination and disease screening and prevention recommendations.
CDC.gov – Pregnancy
Particularly useful for steps you can take to reduce your risk of problems.
Cell-free Fetal DNA in Maternal Blood
Thomas Lee, MD and Wendy Busch, MS, CGC. Perinatal Progress, Volume 5, Number 1. September 2012.
Checking Your Insurance Benefits for Genetic Testing
Information to help you check your insurance coverage and benefits for genetic screening.
Comfort Measures and Over-the-Counter Medications During Pregnancy
From allergies and backaches to constipation, gas and heartburn (fun!), here are safe strategies for coping with or treating what ails you during pregnancy--straight from our providers!
Contemporary Management of Sonographic Aneuploidy Markers
2018-09-20; Thomas Lee, MD, MBA, 16:17
COVID-19, Pregnancy, and Breastfeeding (ACOG)
The latest information from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on COVID-19.
Delivery of Twins
2018-09-20; Lisa Farkhouh, MD, 14:12
Diabetes Mellitus
Barbra M. Fisher, MD, PhD
Perinatal Progress Volume 11, Number 1
April 2018
Diabetes Mellitus Quick Reference Guide
April 2018
Endometriosis Foundation of America
A nonprofit focused on endometriosis awareness, education, advocacy and research that also offers opportunities to get involved with events and community support related to this chronic reproductive health condition.
Enfermedad por coronavirus (COVID-19), embarazo y lactancia (ACOG)
La información más reciente del Colegio Americano de Obstetras y Ginecólogos sobre COVID-19.
Especially for Teens
A resource from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Fundamentals of Obstetric Ultrasound
Thomas Lee, MD, MBA
Perinatal Progress Volume 11, Number 2
August 2018
Genetic Carrier Screening
2018-03-21; Karen Hansen, MS, CGC; 15:11
Genetic Testing
2018-01-24; Karen Hansen, MS, CGC, 16:24
Genetic Testing Specifications
August 2014
Gestational Diabetes – Insulin Made Simple
2018-01-24; Michael Smrtka, MD, 14:49
Getting Disability, FMLA and Other Forms Completed
Oh those pesky forms...from how long they take to how much it costs, here's everything you need to know.
GoodRx
A website to compare the cost of prescription medications.
Healthy Weight Gain in Pregnancy
Wondering how much weight you should be gaining during pregnancy? We've got you covered.
Hemoglobinopathies
2018-03-15; Barbra Fisher, MD, PhD and Jeri Milanovich, MS, CGC, 8:15
Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy: An Update
Mark W. Tomlinson, MD, MBA and Lisa J. Farkouh, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 8, Number 1
April 2015
Hystersisters
On online resource and forum for women having bleeding issues, fibroids, pelvic pain, etc.
Incidence of Significant Chromosomal Abnormalities
Hook EB, Cross PK, Schreinemochers DM
Information on Genetic Screening in Pregnancy
An overview of different genetic and chromosomal conditions for which screening is available, who they are most likely to affect and how often they occur.
Insurance and Billing Information
Does it sometimes feel like you need a degree in insurance to even understand your statement? Think of this as a crash course to help you understand how we bill for services and what questions to ask your insurance provider.
International Urogynecological Association | YourPelvicFloor.org
YourPelvicFloor.org is the patient-centered website of International Urogynecological Association where you can find patient information leaflets, videos, FAQs and more.
La Leche League
Information and support related to breastfeeding—including local support groups.
Language Access & Non-Discrimination Policies
Learn more about WHA’s free translation services and our commitment to non-discrimination.
Late Preterm Steroids: An Update
2018-03-15; Meredith Williams, MD, 13:22
Magnesium Sulfate Uses and Abuses
2018-03-15; Sophia Lannon, MD, MPH, 12:08
Management of Intrauterine Growth Restriction/Fetal Growth Restriction
July 2021
Management of Migraine Headaches in Pregnancy
2018-09-20; Ashlie Tronnes, MD, 16:34
Managing Women at Risk for Preterm Birth
Barbra M. Fisher, MD, PhD and Meredith Williams, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 6, Number 1
August 2013
Marijuana Use in Pregnancy
2019-05-29; Thomas Lee, MD, MBA; 17:28
Medical Record Amendment Request
If you think the information in your medical or billing record is incorrect, you can request a change, or amendment, to your record using this form.
Medical Records Release Form
If you would like to transfer your records to provider outside of WHA, download and complete this form. If you have a MyHealth account, you can also request your records there.
Menopause Preparedness Toolkit
A downloadable educational guide from the Society for Women’s Health Research designed to support individuals through the menopause transition with information on symptoms, midlife health, care planning, wellness and preparing for conversations with health care providers and loved ones.
MiddlesexMD Blog
A good resource for articles on sex after 40. Also includes various products, but this is not a specific endorsement of those.
National Association for Continence
Fecal and urinary incontinence information for patients, caregivers and healthcare professionals.
National Friendship Day Giveaway
Enter to win a manicure for two on our Facebook page in honor of #NationalFriendshipDay.
National Vulvodynia Association
An educational resource from Oregon Health & Science University about vulvar conditions, with guidance for patients experiencing vulvar discomfort or concerns.
New Patient Checklist
Remember when mom made sure you had everything you needed? Think of this as mom’s checklist—only shorter.
No Surprise Billing
Learn more about your rights and protections against surprise medical bills.
Notice of Privacy Practices
Read WHA's Notice of Privacy Practices
NWP Antenatal Late Preterm Steroids Protocol
April 2017
NWP Referral Form
Updated 2017
NWP Ultrasound and Financial Disclosure
Updated 2017
NWP Ultrasound Patient Instructions
Updated 2017
Obesity in Pregnancy
2019-09-19; Ashlie Tronnes, MD; 16:55
Office of Women's Health – Pregnancy
Good basic content on pregnancy and women's health.
Oligohydramnios Measurement and Management
Michael P. Smrtka, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 7, Number 1
June 2014
Opioid Use Disorder in Pregnancy
Meredith K. Williams, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 12, Number 2
October 2019
Our Bodies, Ourselves
A book (and now an organization) that's been around for decades, revised often.
Our Moment of Truth
Learn more about midwifery care and women's health during pregnancy and beyond on this site from the American College of Nurse-Midwives.
Patient Rights and Responsibilities
Every good relationship has clear expectations—and we want this to be a very good relationship! Learn more about what you can expect from us and vice versa.
Patient Survey Program
If you have a visit in one of our offices, you could be asked to provide feedback through an online survey. Learn more about what we do with the information here.
PCOS Awareness Association
A nonprofit dedicated to increasing understanding of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and supporting those affected with educational materials, information on symptoms and treatment options, and links to community support and specialist directories.
Placenta Accreta Spectrum Diagnosis, Myths and Management
2019-03-21; Mark Tomlinson, MD, MBA; 15:29
Placenta Previa Diagnosis and Management
2019-05-29; Barbra Fisher, MD, PhD; 16:41
Planned Parenthood
Great information about all aspects of reproductive health.
Pre-pregnancy Care (ACOG)
From the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, this FAQ includes ideas for optimizing your health before pregnancy, including preventive care, lifestyle guidance and preparation for conception.
Preconception Considerations for Patients Considering IVF
2019-09-19; Meredith Williams, MD; 22:20
Prenatal Education for New Pregnancies
By WHA providers, for WHA patients: here's the educational information we recommend to all our pregnant patients.
Prenatal Education Video
WHA's prenatal educational information, explained in 25 minutes!
Prenatal Patient Information
Here's all the information we covered with you at the beginning of your pregnancy and other helpful resources, including information from the CDC and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists on pregnancy and COVID-19.
Preparing for Your Office Visit
Masks are no longer required—but still greatly appreciated.
Preparing for Your Video Visit
Your clinician wants to be able to see and speak with you during your upcoming appointment, so please take a moment to make sure you're prepared.
Privacy & Security
Learn more about how we’re protecting you—and your health information.
Protocol for Managing Asymptomatic Patients at Risk for Preterm Birth
February 2024
Protocol for Managing Oligohydramnios and Borderline AFI
August 2014
Queer / LGBTQIA+ Menopause
A community-centered resource and support space focused on menopause experiences in LGBTQ+ communities, providing education, stories and connections related to aging and midlife health.
Recommendations for Genetic Screening in Pregnancy
Ashlie A. Tronnes, MD and Karen E. Hansen, MS, CGC
Perinatal Progress Volume 12, Number 1
May 2019
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Sophia M.R. Lannon, MD, MPH
Perinatal Progress Volume 10, Number 1
May 2017
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Protocol for Targeted and Sequential Evaluation
March 2017
Routine Cervical Length Surveillance
2017-09-21; Thomas Lee, MD, MBA, 15:27
Scarleteen
A blog about lots of topics for teens.
Screening for Fetal Chromosomal Abnormalities
Wendy Busch, MS, CGC and Jeri Milanovich, MS, CGC
Perinatal Progress Volume 3, Number 3
October 2010
Sex, Etc.
A website for teens, by teens.
SMFM – Evaluation and Management of Polyhydramnios
Consult Series #46 - October, 2018
SMFM: Five Things Physicians and Patients Should Question
Choosing Wisely, An Initiative of the ABIM Foundation
SMFM: The Role of Ultrasound in Women Who Undergo Cell-free DNA Screening
Consult Series #42 - March, 2017
The Menopause Society
Find trusted information on menopause and midlife women’s health, including symptoms, treatment options and evidence-based guidance for patients and clinicians from a professional medical society.
Thromboembolism and Inherited Thrombophilia
Mark W. Tomlinson, MD, MBA
Perinatal Progress Volume 3, Number 2
June 2010
Thyroid Disease in Pregnancy
2017-09-21; Lisa Farkouh, MD, 12:35
Thyroid Disease in Pregnancy: An Update
Lisa J. Farkouh, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 9, Number 2
August 2016
Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome: An Update
Juan Martinez-Poyer, MD
Perinatal Progress Volume 4, Number 2
September, 2011
Twins, the First Trimester
2017-09-21; Ashlie Tronnes, MD, 15:24
Ultrasound – Think Value!
2018-01-24; Mark Tomlinson, MD, MBA, 15:10
Up to Date
A searchable database of current medical information for both patients and providers.
Urgent Visits and After-hours Help
Life happens and we’re here when it does. Learn more about what to do when you think you need to be seen urgently or need help after hours.
Vaccines in Pregnancy
Santosh Pandipati, MD, FACOG
Perinatal Progress Volume 3, Number 1
February, 2010
Venous Thromboembolism in Pregnancy
2019-03-21; Michael P. Smrtka; 15:08
Vitamin D in Pregnancy: Should We Be Testing?
2018-05-29; Sophia M.R. Lannon, MD, MPH; 17:20
Voices for PFD
A great resource from the American Urogynecologic Society for women experiencing pelvic floor disorders, including bladder and bowel control issues and pelvic organ prolapse.
Voiding Diary
If you’re seeing one of our urogynecologists to talk about urinary incontinence, we may ask you to keep track of things for a while before your visit. Download a copy of the voiding diary here.
WebMD Baby
Good information on all things pregnancy.
Wellbeing Assessment and Other Online Forms
Help us get to know you before your visit or get reacquainted if it’s been a while. If you need to complete a wellbeing assessment, a urogynecology intake form—or any other online forms, you’ll have a notification in your MyHealth account.
What to Expect During a Physical Exam
This resource from the Oregon Medical Board provides more information on what to expect from various types of physical exams at the doctor's office, including how to advocate for your rights and what to know about medical chaperones.
Women's Healthcare Associates – Bridgeview
Women's Healthcare Associates – Gateway
Women's Healthcare Associates – Hillsboro
Women's Healthcare Associates – Newberg
1003 Providence Drive, Suite 340, Newberg, OR, 97132, (503) 538-2698
Women's Healthcare Associates – Oregon City
1508 Division Street, Suite 205, Oregon City, OR, 97045
Phone: (503) 657-1071 | Fax: (503) 657-3321
Women's Healthcare Associates – Peterkort North
9701 SW Barnes Road, Suite 200, Portland, OR, 97225. (503) 734-3700
Women's Healthcare Associates – Tabor
5050 NE Hoyt Street, Suite 230, Portland, 97213
Phone: (503) 249-5454 | Hours: M-F 8:30AM-5:00PM
Your Electronic Health Record
WHA is part of the Legacy Epic computer system for scheduling, medical records and billing. Learn more about what that means for you.
Your Test Results
Learn more about when--and how--you'll hear about your test results and how we'll work with you to adjust your treatment plan, if necessary.