Abdominal distention from gas and bloating and the growing uterus feel different; the uterus is firmer. By the end of 9 months, the uterus has grown enough to crowd the stomach and the intestines, often causing heartburn and gas and making it difficult to eat a lot at one time.
usually the first Dr appointment is 3 days after for a weight check. Then you need to schedule one for two weeks after birth so they can run a PKU. (they give this card info to you in the hospital) Then you don't have to go back for anymore appointments till your baby's 2 month shots.
(Ultrasound waves are also used in the handheld instrument called a Doppler that your practitioner uses during your prenatal visits to listen to your baby's heartbeat.) You may have an early ultrasound at your practitioner's office at 6 to 10 weeks to confirm and date the pregnancy. Or you may not have one until the standard midpregnancy ultrasound between 16 and 20 weeks. That's when you may learn your baby's sex, if you like.