New OB Patients

Welcome — and congratulations on your pregnancy.
We’re glad you’re here.

Pregnancy comes with a lot of questions, and our goal is to provide clear guidance, thoughtful care, and open communication from your very first visit.

Dr. Katelyn Twist provides personalized obstetric care as part of Associates in Women’s Health, working closely with you throughout pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period.

What to Expect at Your First Prenatal Visit

Your initial OB visit typically occurs between 8–12 weeks of pregnancy.

At this visit, we will:

Review your medical, surgical, and pregnancy history
Confirm your pregnancy and estimate your due date
Order prenatal lab work
Perform a pelvic exam if indicated
Review genetic screening options
Answer questions and discuss what to expect moving forward

Every pregnancy is different, and your care plan will be tailored to you.

Prenatal Visit Schedule (Typical)

While this may vary based on your pregnancy, most patients can expect:

8–12 weeks: Initial prenatal visit
Every 4 weeks: Until 28 weeks
Every 2 weeks: 28–36 weeks
Weekly visits: 36 weeks until delivery

Additional visits or ultrasounds may be recommended if there are medical concerns or risk factors.

Genetic Testing & Screening Options

Genetic testing is optional and available to all patients.

We’ll review available options, including:

Cell‑free fetal DNA (blood test)
First trimester screening
Carrier screening (such as cystic fibrosis or SMA)
Natera Horizon and Panorama Screening

The decision to pursue genetic testing is personal — our role is to explain your options and support whatever choice is right for you.

Day‑to‑Day Pregnancy Guidance

Many common questions come up early in pregnancy. We routinely review topics such as:

Prenatal vitamins – Take one every day. No specific brand is best. Choose one you can afford and tolerate well.
Exercise – Stay active during pregnancy. Aim for 30 minutes of aerobic and strength exercise most days (5–7 days a week). Adjust as your body changes.
Nutrition – Eat a balanced diet with healthy foods. It is also okay to enjoy foods you are craving in moderation.
Caffeine – Up to 200 mg per day is considered safe during pregnancy.
Food safety – Cook meat fully. Wash all fruits and vegetables. Avoid recalled foods, especially those linked to listeria.
Hydration – Drink plenty of water. Aim for 8–12 cups per day.
Nausea and vomiting – This is common early in pregnancy. You can try:
Unisom (Doxylamine) 25 mg at bedtime
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) 25 mg every 8 hours as needed
If symptoms continue, contact your provider for other options.
Litter boxes – Avoid cleaning cat litter boxes during pregnancy. Have someone else do this.
Substances to avoid – Do not smoke, vape, drink alcohol, or use illicit drugs.
Seatbelt use – Keep wearing your seatbelt at all times. Adjust it as your belly grows for comfort and safety.

These topics will be revisited throughout pregnancy, and you’re always encouraged to ask questions.

When to Call Our Office

Please contact our office if you experience:

Fever over 100.4°F
Vaginal bleeding
Severe abdominal pain or cramping
Severe or persistent headache not relieved with Tylenol
Vision changes
Burning or pain with urination
Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Decreased fetal movement after 24 weeks
Regular painful contractions, leaking fluid, or signs of preterm labor
Thoughts of harming yourself or others

If you believe you are experiencing an emergency, please go to the nearest emergency room or Labor & Delivery.

Planning for Delivery

Throughout pregnancy, we will discuss:

Labor and delivery expectations
Pain management options
Vaginal delivery and cesarean delivery considerations
Birth preferences and goals

Dr. Twist Delivers at Wesley Medical Center and Birth Care Suites

If you’re interested in touring either or both facilities, please call 316-962-7444.

You can pre-register at the hospital after you are 28 weeks pregnant. More information can be found at the following link: Pre-Registration Link.

Wesley Medical Center offers a variety of maternity classes. Sign up and learn more here: Maternity Classes Calendar.

Consider exploring Baby Talk, a fantastic resource for prenatal education, which is entirely free. Visit their website for more information: Baby Talk.

All interventions are discussed and require your consent. Our focus is a healthy parent, a healthy baby, and clear communication every step of the way.

Delivery Team

Doula and midwifery support – We support ACOG’s recommendations for doula care during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Research shows that one-on-one emotional and physical support can improve the birth experience and outcomes.
Care approach – Our practice follows evidence-based medicine while also supporting team-based care that includes doulas and midwives when appropriate.
Working together – Dr. Twist enjoys working with local doulas and midwives and values a collaborative approach to care.
We are happy to discuss your preferences and support team at your appointment.

Trusted Medical Resources

Mayo Clinic – Prenatal care overview

Mayo Clinic – Pregnancy weight gain

ACOG – Pregnancy information & medication safety