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Prenatal Care

Early prenatal care gives your baby the best possible start. At Columbia Memorial Hospital, our experienced nurses, OB-GYNs and certified nurse midwives are focused on your well-being and helping you have a healthy pregnancy.

Your first obstetrics visit

We recommend you give us a call as soon as you find out you're pregnant. We typically schedule the first in-person appointment for around eight to 12 weeks after your last period.

Before your first visit, you'll have a call with an obstetrics nurse. The nurse will review your history and schedule you with an obstetrician or certified nurse-midwife. They will also answer any questions you have.

Your first appointment will include a complete ultrasound before you meet with your provider. It's an exciting time. You'll go home with photos too.

You'll see one provider for your pregnancy. That means you can build a relationship with your midwife or physician right away. And you'll always work with a nurse who is familiar with your care and who can address any concerns between appointments.

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Prenatal classes

There's a lot to learn about pregnancy, childbirth and parenthood. That's why CMH offers a comprehensive class for expectant parents. The course is free for those who plan on delivering at the CMH Family Birth Center. It's just $75 for others.

The class is limited to six couples (mom-to-be and her care partner).

We understand that you have a busy schedule, so the course happens during one weekend: a few hours Friday night, then all day on Saturday.

In the class, you'll learn about:

  • Signs of labor.
  • The hospital experience.
  • Pain management, including birth positions and medications.
  • What to expect during birth.

Check out the CMH calendar to find a class time that works for you.

Other prenatal resources

The right information and tools can make pregnancy and birth easier. Here are some of the other resources we can provide:

"Understanding Birth." CMH gives expectant moms this book, which comes with an app that contains birth videos and tools like kick counters and contraction timers.

A no-cost pediatrics consultation. The best time to find a pediatrician is before your baby is born. Schedule a free consultation at the CMH-OHSU Health Pediatric Clinic by calling 503.325.7337.

First Steps rewards program. Expectant moms who are Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members can get more than $400 in Amazon gift cards. First Steps is a free program from Columbia Pacific CCO that rewards you for making healthy choices during pregnancy. Sign up at your next appointment. You can also call 503.338.7598 or sign up online.

Prenatal supplies. The CMH Outpatient Pharmacy offers a wide array of items to help you stay healthy and comfortable during your pregnancy.

Get prenatal care started now

Personalized care for you and your baby is just a phone call away.

We look forward to helping you and your family.