Dr. Moukarzel's office
Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS
OBGYN & Urogynecology located in El Centro, CA
Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your third, you want an OB/GYN with experience and an excellent bedside manner. Double board-certified physician, Dr. Elias Moukarzel, has over 24 years of experience helping mothers bring babies into the world and he can help you, too. Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS offers everything you need for a safe and healthy pregnancy. Call the office today at 760-352-4103 to schedule your appointment.
Obstetrics Q & A
What can you expect at your first prenatal appointment?
Call to schedule your first appointment with Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. In most cases, he asks that you schedule at about eight weeks and may request that you come into the office for an official pregnancy test.
When you arrive for your first appointment, Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS begins by reviewing your medical history. He asks questions about past pregnancies, your periods and gynecological history, as well as your personal and family medical history.
He asks about any medications, both prescription or over-the-counter, and supplements and counsels you on lifestyle habits that can impact your pregnancy, including the risks involved with using tobacco and alcohol.
Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS estimates your due date based on your last period. He may use a trans-vaginal ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy date and fetal age.
Your OB/GYN also performs a physical exam during your first prenatal appointment. During the exam, he may:
- Take your height and weight
- Measure your blood pressure and pulse
- Perform a pelvic exam
- Administer a Pap smear if indicated
What kinds of tests and screenings are done during your first obstetrics appointment?
In addition to the thorough exam Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS performs, he also orders a variety of lab and screening tests. He orders a blood test to check your blood type and measure your hemoglobin, which indicates your iron levels.
If you’re a high-risk pregnancy, Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS may order testing for fetal abnormalities, including antenatal testing, ultrasound, genetic testing, or fetal monitoring.
How often do you need to see the OB when you are pregnant?
If you don’t have a high risk pregnancy health complications and have no other pre-existing conditions, Elias Moukarzel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS typically schedules your first prenatal appointment after confirming the pregnancy due date. Between then and week 28, you should have one prenatal appointment per month.
From weeks 29-36, you see him every two weeks. From weeks 36 to due date (EDC), you have weekly appointments.
