Prenatal care as a routine This is the standard timetable for routine visits. Up to 26 weeks pregnant, with four-weekly appointments. From 26 to 32 weeks, an appointment is scheduled every three weeks. From 32 to 36 weeks, appointments are scheduled every two weeks. The last visit is usually at 37 weeks gestation or later. Routine prenatal care helps identify problems in early pregnancy that can be treated before they become serious. It also allows time to prepare parents for the upcoming birth and provide postpartum support after the baby is born. A specialist in maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) provides care during pregnancy and the first year postpartum. These doctors are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions that may arise during these times. They work with patients' regular physicians to coordinate care between visits to avoid multiple admissions to hospital. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists treat patients throughout their pregnancies and postpartum periods. They often see patients within the same day for follow-up examinations. Because many complications can develop quickly after delivery, postpartum visits are important in identifying issues such as preexisting health problems that may require further treatment. Maternal-fetal medicine specialists must complete at least two years of general surgery training plus one year of obstetrics and gynecology training to be certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties.