Question:
I just had my 3 month appointment and I have not had any lab work done yet

What do I need to have done and how often should it be checked.    — [Anonymous] (posted on March 4, 2002)

March 4, 2002
my surgeon does labs annually only.
   — sheryl titone

March 4, 2002
Please forgive me if it sounds like I am questioning sheryl's doctor but, bloodwork once a year in the first year doesn't seem enough at all. How can he tell if there is a problem with iron, B12, potassium, calcium, vitamin A, D, etc. I would have "really" been sicker than I am had I not had bloodwork to tell me the problems that I was having. I had a complete workup at 3 month, 6 months and one year. Maybe other doctors do things differently but I would want to know before a year if all is well or not.
   — Barbara H.

March 4, 2002
I agree, especially through the first year...labs should be checked. Mine were checked at 3 months, 6 months, 9 months and soon to be 1 yr. Every time I had labs drawn they were abnormal, resulting in medications (ie. iron supplements, b-12 shots, potassium) and also lab redraws 2 weeks following to recheck levels. I think it is important enough to inquire about! Jeanne
   — Jeanne P.

March 4, 2002
If you email me privately, I can give you a list of the things we are checked for routinely.
   — vitalady