Management of the first 20 weeks of pregnancy.

The general practitioner is involved in many aspects of patient care during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. The first visit involves a thorough history and examination, intelligently chosen investigations, and careful planning of antenatal care and the confinement. Even if specialist care is indicated, the family doctor may be consulted about many problems including morning sickness, abnormal bleeding and abdominal and pelvic pain.