first pregnancy doctor visit

Your First Prenatal Appointment

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When should I schedule my first prenatal visit? 

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Prenatal care: 1st trimester visits

Pregnancy and prenatal care go hand in hand. During the first trimester, prenatal care includes blood tests, a physical exam, conversations about lifestyle and more.

Prenatal care is an important part of a healthy pregnancy. Whether you choose a family physician, obstetrician, midwife or group prenatal care, here's what to expect during the first few prenatal appointments.

The 1st visit

When you find out you're pregnant, make your first prenatal appointment. Set aside time for the first visit to go over your medical history and talk about any risk factors for pregnancy problems that you may have.

Medical history

Your health care provider might ask about:

• Your menstrual cycle, gynecological history and any past pregnancies
• Your personal and family medical history
• Exposure to anything that could be toxic
• Medications you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins or supplements
• Your lifestyle, including your use of tobacco, alcohol, caffeine and recreational drugs
• Travel to areas where malaria, tuberculosis, Zika virus, mpox — also called monkeypox — or other infectious diseases are common

Share information about sensitive issues, such as domestic abuse or past drug use, too. This will help your health care provider take the best care of you — and your baby.

Your due date is not a prediction of when you will have your baby. It's simply the date that you will be 40 weeks pregnant. Few people give birth on their due dates. Still, establishing your due date — or estimated date of delivery — is important. It allows your health care provider to monitor your baby's growth and the progress of your pregnancy. Your due date also helps with scheduling tests and procedures, so they are done at the right time.

To estimate your due date, your health care provider will use the date your last period started, add seven days and count back three months. The due date will be about 40 weeks from the first day of your last period. Your health care provider can use a fetal ultrasound to help confirm the date. Typically, if the due date calculated with your last period and the due date calculated with an early ultrasound differ by more than seven days, the ultrasound is used to set the due date.

Physical exam

To find out how much weight you need to gain for a healthy pregnancy, your health care provider will measure your weight and height and calculate your body mass index.

Your health care provider might do a physical exam, including a breast exam and a pelvic exam. You might need a Pap test, depending on how long it's been since your last Pap test. Depending on your situation, you may need exams of your heart, lungs and thyroid.

At your first prenatal visit, blood tests might be done to:

• Check your blood type. This includes your Rh status. Rh factor is an inherited trait that refers to a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. Your pregnancy might need special care if you're Rh negative and your baby's father is Rh positive.
• Measure your hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein found in red blood cells that allows the cells to carry oxygen from your lungs to other parts of your body. Hemoglobin also carries carbon dioxide from other parts of your body to your lungs so that it can be exhaled. Low hemoglobin or a low level of red blood cells is a sign of anemia. Anemia can make you feel very tired, and it may affect your pregnancy.
• Check immunity to certain infections. This typically includes rubella and chickenpox (varicella) — unless proof of vaccination or natural immunity is documented in your medical history.
• Detect exposure to other infections. Your health care provider will suggest blood tests to detect infections such as hepatitis B, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and HIV , the virus that causes AIDS . A urine sample might also be tested for signs of a bladder or urinary tract infection.

Tests for fetal concerns

Prenatal tests can provide valuable information about your baby's health. Your health care provider will typically offer a variety of prenatal genetic screening tests. They may include ultrasound or blood tests to check for certain fetal genetic problems, such as Down syndrome.

Lifestyle issues

Your health care provider might discuss the importance of nutrition and prenatal vitamins. Ask about exercise, sex, dental care, vaccinations and travel during pregnancy, as well as other lifestyle issues. You might also talk about your work environment and the use of medications during pregnancy. If you smoke, ask your health care provider for suggestions to help you quit.

Discomforts of pregnancy

You might notice changes in your body early in your pregnancy. Your breasts might be tender and swollen. Nausea with or without vomiting (morning sickness) is also common. Talk to your health care provider if your morning sickness is severe.

Other 1st trimester visits

Your next prenatal visits — often scheduled about every four weeks during the first trimester — might be shorter than the first. Near the end of the first trimester — by about 12 to 14 weeks of pregnancy — you might be able to hear your baby's heartbeat with a small device, called a Doppler, that bounces sound waves off your baby's heart. Your health care provider may offer a first trimester ultrasound, too.

Your prenatal appointments are an ideal time to discuss questions you have. During your first visit, find out how to reach your health care team between appointments in case concerns come up. Knowing help is available can offer peace of mind.

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• Lockwood CJ, et al. Prenatal care: Initial assessment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Prenatal care and tests. Office on Women's Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/prenatal-care-and-tests. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Cunningham FG, et al., eds. Prenatal care. In: Williams Obstetrics. 25th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Education; 2018. https://www.accessmedicine.mhmedical.com. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Lockwood CJ, et al. Prenatal care: Second and third trimesters. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience. World Health Organization. http://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/maternal_perinatal_health/anc-positive-pregnancy-experience/en/. Accessed July 9, 2018.
• Bastian LA, et al. Clinical manifestations and early diagnosis of pregnancy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed July 9, 2018.

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What to expect at your first prenatal appointment

Your kickoff prenatal visit sets the stage for the rest of your pregnancy. Here's what to expect at this information-packed first appointment and how you can prepare.

When to schedule your first prenatal visit

When will your first appointment be, what happens at the first prenatal visit, how to prepare for your first prenatal appointment, what questions to ask at the first prenatal visit.

As soon as you get a positive result on a home pregnancy test , book an appointment with an obstetrician, family physician, or midwife . Depending on the practice, it's normal for another provider in the office, like a nurse practitioner or physician assistant, to handle your first visit.

If you haven't yet chosen a healthcare provider for your pregnancy, that's okay. It's still important to see someone now to start your prenatal care. You can always switch to another provider later. 

Many healthcare providers will schedule your first visit for when you're about 8 weeks pregnant . Some will see you sooner, particularly if you have an existing health condition, had problems with a pregnancy in the past, or are having new or severe symptoms such as vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain .

If you're taking any medications or think you may have been exposed to a hazardous substance, let your provider know as soon as possible.

The first visit will probably be the longest of your prenatal appointments (unless you have complications with your pregnancy along the way). At this and all future visits, don't be afraid to raise any questions or concerns you've been wondering about – it helps to keep a running list between appointments.

Here's what your provider will likely do during your first prenatal visit.

Take your health history. Your provider will ask questions about your gynecological health, personal medical history, and lifestyle habits. Topics commonly covered include:

• Whether your menstrual cycles are regular and how long they tend to last
• The first day of your last period (to determine your due date )
• Symptoms or problems you've noticed since your last period, whether they're related to pregnancy or not
• Current or past gynecological conditions, including sexually transmitted infections
• Details about previous pregnancies
• Current or past diseases and conditions
• Past surgeries or hospitalizations
• Mental health difficulties and diagnoses
• Whether you are being or have been abused , or have another situation that could affect your safety or emotional well-being
• Smoking, drinking, and drug use
• Medications, supplements, vitamins, and herbal drugs you take
• Drug allergies

Your healthcare provider will also ask about your family medical history. Many genetic issues and birth defects are at least partly hereditary, so learning about your family history helps your medical team keep an eye out for potential issues. Let your provider know whether a relative in your or your partner's family has a chromosomal or genetic disorder, had developmental delays, or was born with a structural birth defect.

It's also important to mention any potential exposure to toxins, especially if you live or work near toxic materials.

Check you out and run some tests. You can expect a number of standard exams and tests at your first prenatal visit. Some healthcare providers will do an ultrasound , but if you don't have any medical problems or concerns, it may not be part of the routine. Here's what's typical:

• A thorough physical exam
• A pelvic exam, including a Pap smear (unless you've had one recently) to check for infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea or abnormal cells that could indicate cervical cancer
• A urine sample to test for urinary tract infections and other conditions

Your provider will also order blood tests to:

• Identify your blood type and Rh status
• Look for anemia
• Check for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and, in certain cases, hepatitis C
• Determine immunity to rubella (German measles) and chickenpox

Discuss any high-risk pregnancy concerns. Many people are considered to have high-risk pregnancies , meaning there's a higher-than-average chance of health issues during pregnancy, labor, and birth. High-risk groups include those who:

• Become pregnant for the first time at age 35 or older
• Become pregnant for the first time before age 18
• Have certain medical issues that develop during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes
• Have certain preexisting health problems, such as high blood pressure , thyroid disease , or type 1 or type 2 diabetes

High-risk pregnancies need extra care. While many potential complications are treatable or temporary, some can be dangerous to both you and your baby. Your provider will talk through the risks at your first visit and throughout your pregnancy – and don't be afraid to ask questions at any point.

Explain your options for prenatal genetic testing. Your provider will offer you various prenatal screenings that can give you information about your baby's risk for birth defects and chromosomal conditions. These tests include:

• Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) , also called cell-free fetal DNA testing. Performed at 9 weeks or later, it's used to examine the little bits of your baby's DNA present in your blood.
• A first trimester screen, also called a first-trimester combined test. Typically done between weeks 11 and 13, it consists of a blood test and a type of ultrasound called a nuchal translucency .
• A carrier screening if you haven't had one already. It's a simple blood or saliva test done to see whether your baby is at risk for any of 100 genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and Tay-Sachs disease.

Finally, if you're high-risk, there are invasive genetic diagnostic tests that can tell you for sure whether your baby has Down syndrome or certain other conditions. These tests include chorionic villus sampling (CVS) , generally performed at 10 to 13 weeks, and amniocentesis , usually done at 16 to 20 weeks.

CVS and amniocentesis are invasive and may carry a small risk of miscarriage , so women who choose to have these procedures are usually those with a higher risk for genetic and chromosomal problems. Some moms-to-be choose to wait for the results of screening tests before deciding whether to have one of these diagnostic tests.

For more information, your provider can refer you to a genetic counselor .

Give you advice and let you know what's ahead. Your healthcare provider will give you information about eating well , foods to avoid , healthy weight gain , and prenatal vitamins . They'll also give you a heads-up about the common discomforts of early pregnancy and let you know which pregnancy symptoms require immediate attention .

Your emotional health is very important. Your provider may screen you for signs of depression during pregnancy . But don't wait to be asked. If you're feeling depressed or anxious, let your provider know so they can refer you to someone who can help.

The dangers of smoking , drinking alcohol, using drugs, and taking certain medications will be a topic of discussion, as well. If you need help quitting smoking or any other substance, your provider can recommend a program or counselor.

Other topics include the do's and don'ts of exercise , travel , and sex during pregnancy ; environmental and occupational hazards that can affect your baby; and how to avoid certain infections, such as toxoplasmosis . Your provider will also discuss recommended vaccinations , like the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine .

To help your visit go as smoothly as possible, try taking the following steps.

Review your medical history. Brush up on your health status so you can better answer questions. This includes information about your:

• Overall physical and mental health
• Current and past diseases, conditions and other health issues
• Current medications, including prescriptions, supplements, vitamins and herbal supplements and teas
• Fertility and pregnancy history
• Family medical history
• Partner's medical history

If possible, bring documentation along, such as immunization records or a list of your medications. You may even want to bring a baggie containing the medications themselves.

Take your partner, a family member, or friend. Another person can write down notes, ask questions, and provide emotional support during this information-dense first visit.

Get there on time or a little early. This can be helpful for filling out forms and reviewing your insurance. Make sure to bring your insurance information and cash or a credit card for any necessary co-pays.

Just as your provider will ask you questions at your first prenatal visit, it's a good idea to come prepared with a list of questions for your provider. Ask anything – and don't be shy. Again, try to keep a running list in the weeks before the appointment, so nothing important slips your mind.

Here are some questions to consider if your provider doesn't bring up the topic first.

• How much weight gain is healthy for me? The first prenatal visit is a great opportunity to learn about how your body will change. It's also a good time to ask about nutrition, including which foods to prioritize in your diet.
• What are the foods I should avoid ? Raw fish and unpasteurized cheeses are long-established no-no's for pregnant people, but ask your provider for a full list of what to skip, since the accepted wisdom has changed over the years. Ask about caffeine and alcohol, too. Coffee is typically alright in limited doses, but no amount of alcohol is considered safe when you're having a baby.
• Are prenatal supplements a good choice? Your provider will likely recommend a prenatal vitamin containing folic acid and iron, both of which are needed more during pregnancy.
• Can I exercise? What about sex? With some exceptions, both are usually okay when you're pregnant. They're important to discuss, however, since certain conditions may complicate matters.
• Is it safe to keep working? If you have a physically or emotionally demanding job , you may want to ask how you can ease the effects on your body and mind.
• Is travel okay? While planes, trains, and automobiles are typically safe well into pregnancy, people with particular complications may need to limit or avoid traveling.
• Which medications are safe to take? Ask about your current prescriptions, herbal products, teas, supplements, and any over-the-counter drugs you may use, such as pain relievers and cold medicines. Non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen are not recommended, for example.
• What are common symptoms of pregnancy? Your provider can tell you what to expect and how to cope. Remember to ask what symptoms are uncommon, too, and what red flags to watch for.
• What should I do in an emergency? Find out who to contact and where to go if you begin to experience new, unusual, severe, or long-lasting symptoms.
• Who will treat me over the course of my pregnancy? If your provider is part of a group practice, you may see other members of the group during appointments. They may even deliver your baby.
• Do you recommend taking prenatal classes? Whether they're in a hospital, at a university, online, or somewhere else, prenatal classes can be invaluable learning experiences for parents-to-be. On top of the usual childbirth classes you hear about, you can also find courses in everything from stress management to good nutrition and even breastfeeding.

Last but not least, ask about your next visit and schedule the appointment before leaving the office. Until your 28th week of pregnancy, you'll likely see someone every four weeks or so.

You may also want to ask whether future visits will be in-person or virtual. Certain practices offer virtual visits for low-risk patients, those whose providers aren't close by, or even higher-risk patients that need to be evaluated more often.

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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022. Recommended Clinician Timeline for Screening for Syphilis, HIV, HBV, HCV, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea.  https://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/pregnancy/screening/clinician-timeline.html Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

Alabama Perinatal Excellence Collaborative. 2015. APEC Guidelines for Routine Prenatal Care.  http://apecguidelines.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Routine-Prenatal-Care-6-30-2015.pdf Opens a new window  [Accessed March 2024]

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Prepping for Your First Prenatal Visit? Ask Your Doc These Questions

Table of Contents

Questions about your body and your health, questions about your doctor & delivery.

Early pregnancy often feels very abstract—all you have to show for it are two pink lines on a stick . Once you call your doctor’s office to tell them you’re pregnant (the receptionist is probably the first person you’ll tell besides your partner), they probably won’t have you come in until you’re somewhere between seven and ten weeks along. This is to ensure your appointment is far enough along to hear a heartbeat, but it also means you’ll have a lot of time to prep for that exciting and nerve-wracking first prenatal appointment, where it all starts to feel a little more real.

So how do you prepare for your first prenatal appointment? There’s not a ton you need to do, but there are a few things that will help ensure it goes as smoothly as possible. First, think about when your last period started—your pregnancy begins on the first day of your last period (so for the first two-ish weeks of your official pregnancy, you actually aren’t pregnant—weird).  

You’ll also want to inventory any medications or supplements you take and think about anything from your medical history that may not be clearly outlined in your chart. For example, maybe your mom gave birth prematurely, you have irregular periods, or you’ve had a previous chemical pregnancy. But most of all, you’ll want to prep some questions to ask at your first prenatal visit. While your mind is spinning with excitement and your growing to-do list, we’re here to help you check off that last box. 

You don’t need to ask all of these questions at your first appointment—you can pick and choose which are most relevant to you and decide what you need to know now versus what can wait for your next appointment. But it’s good to look over all of them, so you can be prepared to get answers, especially for things that are non-negotiables for you. For example, if you’re hoping for a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean) and your doctor or hospital is hesitant to do them, it’s probably time to look for a new provider. And the earlier you can do that, the better.

Read on for a comprehensive look at the questions you may want to consider asking at your first prenatal appointment, whether it’s your first pregnancy or your fifth.

How should I think about my exercise routine during my pregnancy? 

If your doctor so far has been Google, you will know that there are conflicting takes about basically every type of exercise and pregnancy . ( No hot yoga during pregnancy! But do all the exercise you normally do! ). So, it’s helpful to get a medical professional’s insight on how much you should be exercising and how your routine should or shouldn’t change. 

What should I know about sex during pregnancy?

Your doctor’s advice may change by trimester, but it’s good to start having the conversation early. They’ll probably tell you anything goes (as long as you’re comfortable), but in cases where there’s a history of certain conditions like placental issues or pre-term labor, your doctor may want you to exercise caution or abstain (sorry!).

Based on my medical history, does it appear that I’m at risk for any complications?

It’s better to have all the information you need upfront, right? For example, certain things like having frequent migraines, diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome may put you at an increased risk of preeclampsia 1   . Your doctor will be able to give you the broad strokes during this first visit of what you should and—even more importantly—shouldn’t worry about based on your history. 

How long can I travel? And can I go on an international trip?

I had to reschedule a trip to Mexico when I was pregnant with my son because my doctor felt it was planned for a time that was too late in my pregnancy. I’m very glad I asked at that first appointment and had plenty of time to make changes.

What symptoms are not considered normal and warrant an immediate call to your office?

Many women (myself included) will have the urge to call their doctor over every little cramp and twinge. While you should feel empowered to ask your doctor anything and everything, there are some pregnancy symptoms they will definitely want you to contact them about, like bleeding or pain. They can also give you guidelines on the things you might experience that could cause you concern, especially if this is your first, but that are perfectly normal during pregnancy. 

What medicine can I take?

You may be surprised by which medications are pregnancy-safe and which are not. You can (and probably should) Google before you take any medication, but the internet can be a confusing place, so it’s good to have a doctor’s sign-off, especially on any regular meds you take.

What foods do I really need to avoid? What is okay in moderation?

If you’re like me, you’ll have lots of questions like, “I know sushi is generally a ‘no,’ but what if it’s from a high-quality restaurant? And do I really need to give up Brie?” Your doctor will be able to give you guidelines on the foods that could put you and your baby at risk of listeria or toxoplasmosis (aka definitely don’t eat), and the ones that are on the avoid list, but that, if they do make you sick, will be no worse for you than it would be if you weren’t pregnant. 

What beauty products should I steer clear of? 

Sorry, but your retinol will probably have to take a backseat. Your doctor will explain any skincare ingredients to avoid and sneaky places they may be hiding.

Can I clean a litter box? Garden? Dye my hair?

There are a variety of activities that everyone talks about avoiding during pregnancy. Take a look at your normal habits and ask your doctor about anything that you’re concerned about. They can give you guidelines on what you do and don’t need to change. 

What is your stance on the occasional drink?

If you survey your parent friends, you’ll probably find that some completely avoided alcohol for all 40 weeks, while others had an occasional beer or glass of wine later in pregnancy. (French women, yada yada). Depending on how by the book your doctor is, they may give you the ACOG answer 2   (there is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy) or something a little more nuanced about how it’s impossible to study alcohol and pregnancy, so they don’t know for sure. Either way, it’s a good idea to get their opinion before you make the decision that’s right for you.

What are weight gain expectations for this pregnancy? Does it change if I didn’t shed all the weight from the first pregnancy?

Your doctor will be able to address all your questions about weight and pregnancy, including any complications associated with gaining too little or too much. The first appointment is a good time to set expectations for future conversations about weight, whether it’s not wanting to know the number on the scale (something I’m really glad I asked for) or opting out of weight checks altogether.

What can I do for constipation and hemorrhoids?

Just trust me, you’re going to want to know.

What do you recommend I do to prepare for birth?

Sure, this is your first appointment, but it’s never too early to start getting ready for the big day. Your doctor may recommend specific books, exercises, Instagram accounts they like, or even a doula or birth class. It’s a good idea to start figuring out your options early so that you have plenty of time to do the birth-prep exercises or start interviewing doulas. 

What is the best way for me to contact you with non-urgent questions?

You’re going to have a lot of questions, and not all of them need to be answered right away. Does your doctor like to be messaged through the patient portal? Would they prefer you leave a message with the receptionist? How long should you expect to wait to get an answer? And what should you do for urgent questions?

Does your doctor have any travel planned?

Now’s the time to find out if your doctor has an African safari planned around your due date. If they do have vacation or extended time off on the calendar during your pregnancy, it’s important to know who you’ll see instead and what the practice’s plans are for coverage.

Who will deliver my baby if you are not on call?

So much of having a good birth experience is feeling comfortable with your team. For that reason, it can be nice to get to know the other doctors in the practice who could potentially deliver your baby or at least familiarize yourself with who it could be.

How much past 40 weeks will you allow me to go?

Doctors have many different stances on how long past 40 weeks they’ll allow patients to go, so this question is important to ask. Some research shows 3   that inducing after 41 weeks lowers the risk of stillbirth and other complications, like meconium aspiration (when babies breathe in their waste). Some will insist on inducing earlier than 41 weeks, and some may let you go up to 42 weeks. It’s good to know their policy regardless, but if you have a specific preference, you will want to make sure your doctor’s policies are in alignment.

What is your policy on _______?

Pick and choose the questions on policies that are meaningful for you here. Some doctors, for example, are not trained on instrument-assisted deliveries, so in the event that you would need one (if you fatigue from pushing or the baby is in distress), you’d instead have an emergency C-section. (I did not think to ask this question myself, but I will if I have future pregnancies, as my son was born assisted by vacuum when his heart rate began to drop). Some situations to consider asking about: 

Scheduled c-sections

Pain management

Episiotomies

Intermittent vs continuous monitoring

Instrument-assisted deliveries (forceps or vacuum)

VBACs (This will only be relevant to you if you’ve previously had one or more caesareans and are hoping for a vaginal delivery)

What is the cadence of my appointments?

Your ob-gyn practice may set up all your appointments, or at least all of them through 20 weeks, at that very first prenatal appointment. Generally, you’ll go monthly up until about 28 weeks, then every other week until 36 weeks when you begin weekly appointments. But this is a good time to let the office know if a certain day or time doesn’t work for you and how they handle scheduling. 

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Expectful uses only high-quality sources, including academic research institutions, medical associations, and subject matter experts.

National Institutes of Health .  " Who is at risk of preeclampsia? " ,  https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/preeclampsia/conditioninfo/risk#:~:text=Preeclampsia%20is%20also%20more%20common,diabetes%2C%20and%20sickle%20cell%20disease. .

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists .  " Alcohol and Pregnancy " ,  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/infographics/alcohol-and-pregnancy .

Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care .  " Pregnancy and birth: When does labor need to be induced? " ,  Sep 24, 2008 ,  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279570/#:~:text=In%20other%20words%3A%20The%20research,aspiration%20(breathing%20in%20meconium). .

Grace Gallagher, MFA, Hunter College

Grace Gallagher is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon. Her work focuses on parenting, health, and beauty and has appeared in Parents, Romper, Pregnancy & Newborn, Shape, InStyle, and more.

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Healthcare in Moscow – Personal and Family Medicine

Emergency : 112 or 103

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About medical services in Moscow

Moscow polyclinic

Emergency medical care is provided free to all foreign nationals in case of life-threatening conditions that require immediate medical treatment. You will be given first aid and emergency surgery when necessary in all public health care facilities. Any further treatment will be free only to people with a Compulsory Medical Insurance, or you will need to pay for medical services. Public health care is provided in federal and local care facilities. These include 1. Urban polyclinics with specialists in different areas that offer general medical care. 2. Ambulatory and hospitals that provide a full range of services, including emergency care. 3. Emergency stations opened 24 hours a day, can be visited in a case of a non-life-threatening injury. It is often hard to find English-speaking staff in state facilities, except the largest city hospitals, so you will need a Russian-speaking interpreter to accompany your visit to a free doctor or hospital. If medical assistance is required, the insurance company should be contacted before visiting a medical facility for treatment, except emergency cases. Make sure that you have enough money to pay any necessary fees that may be charged.

Insurance in Russia

Travelers need to arrange private travel insurance before the journey. You would need the insurance when applying for the Russian visa. If you arrange the insurance outside Russia, it is important to make sure the insurer is licensed in Russia. Only licensed companies may be accepted under Russian law. Holders of a temporary residence permit or permanent residence permit (valid for three and five years respectively) should apply for «Compulsory Medical Policy». It covers state healthcare only. An employer usually deals with this. The issued health card is shown whenever medical attention is required. Compulsory Medical Policyholders can get basic health care, such as emergencies, consultations with doctors, necessary scans and tests free. For more complex healthcare every person (both Russian and foreign nationals) must pay extra, or take out additional medical insurance. Clearly, you will have to be prepared to wait in a queue to see a specialist in a public health care facility (Compulsory Medical Policyholders can set an appointment using EMIAS site or ATM). In case you are a UK citizen, free, limited medical treatment in state hospitals will be provided as a part of a reciprocal agreement between Russia and UK.

Some of the major Russian insurance companies are:

Ingosstrakh , Allianz , Reso , Sogaz , AlfaStrakhovanie . We recommend to avoid  Rosgosstrakh company due to high volume of denials.

Moscow pharmacies

A.v.e pharmacy in Moscow

Pharmacies can be found in many places around the city, many of them work 24 hours a day. Pharmaceutical kiosks operate in almost every big supermarket. However, only few have English-speaking staff, so it is advised that you know the generic (chemical) name of the medicines you think you are going to need. Many medications can be purchased here over the counter that would only be available by prescription in your home country.

Dental care in Moscow

Dentamix clinic in Moscow

Dental care is usually paid separately by both Russian and expatriate patients, and fees are often quite high. Dentists are well trained and educated. In most places, dental care is available 24 hours a day.

Moscow clinics

«OAO Medicina» clinic

It is standard practice for expats to visit private clinics and hospitals for check-ups, routine health care, and dental care, and only use public services in case of an emergency. Insurance companies can usually provide details of clinics and hospitals in the area speak English (or the language required) and would be the best to use. Investigate whether there are any emergency services or numbers, or any requirements to register with them. Providing copies of medical records is also advised.

Moscow hosts some Western medical clinics that can look after all of your family’s health needs. While most Russian state hospitals are not up to Western standards, Russian doctors are very good.

Some of the main Moscow private medical clinics are:

American Medical Center, European Medical Center , Intermed Center American Clinic ,  Medsi , Atlas Medical Center , OAO Medicina .

Several Russian hospitals in Moscow have special arrangements with GlavUPDK (foreign diplomatic corps administration in Moscow) and accept foreigners for checkups and treatments at more moderate prices that the Western medical clinics.

Medical emergency in Moscow

Moscow ambulance vehicle

In a case of a medical emergency, dial 112 and ask for the ambulance service (skoraya pomoshch). Staff on these lines most certainly will speak English, still it is always better to ask a Russian speaker to explain the problem and the exact location.

Ambulances come with a doctor and, depending on the case, immediate first aid treatment may be provided. If necessary, the patient is taken to the nearest emergency room or hospital, or to a private hospital if the holder’s insurance policy requires it.

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What the data says about abortion in the u.s..

Pew Research Center has conducted many surveys about abortion over the years, providing a lens into Americans’ views on whether the procedure should be legal, among a host of other questions.

In a  Center survey  conducted nearly a year after the Supreme Court’s June 2022 decision that  ended the constitutional right to abortion , 62% of U.S. adults said the practice should be legal in all or most cases, while 36% said it should be illegal in all or most cases. Another survey conducted a few months before the decision showed that relatively few Americans take an absolutist view on the issue .

Find answers to common questions about abortion in America, based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Guttmacher Institute, which have tracked these patterns for several decades:

How many abortions are there in the U.S. each year?

How has the number of abortions in the u.s. changed over time, what is the abortion rate among women in the u.s. how has it changed over time, what are the most common types of abortion, how many abortion providers are there in the u.s., and how has that number changed, what percentage of abortions are for women who live in a different state from the abortion provider, what are the demographics of women who have had abortions, when during pregnancy do most abortions occur, how often are there medical complications from abortion.

This compilation of data on abortion in the United States draws mainly from two sources: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Guttmacher Institute, both of which have regularly compiled national abortion data for approximately half a century, and which collect their data in different ways.

The CDC data that is highlighted in this post comes from the agency’s “abortion surveillance” reports, which have been published annually since 1974 (and which have included data from 1969). Its figures from 1973 through 1996 include data from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and New York City – 52 “reporting areas” in all. Since 1997, the CDC’s totals have lacked data from some states (most notably California) for the years that those states did not report data to the agency. The four reporting areas that did not submit data to the CDC in 2021 – California, Maryland, New Hampshire and New Jersey – accounted for approximately 25% of all legal induced abortions in the U.S. in 2020, according to Guttmacher’s data. Most states, though,  do  have data in the reports, and the figures for the vast majority of them came from each state’s central health agency, while for some states, the figures came from hospitals and other medical facilities.

Discussion of CDC abortion data involving women’s state of residence, marital status, race, ethnicity, age, abortion history and the number of previous live births excludes the low share of abortions where that information was not supplied. Read the methodology for the CDC’s latest abortion surveillance report , which includes data from 2021, for more details. Previous reports can be found at  stacks.cdc.gov  by entering “abortion surveillance” into the search box.

For the numbers of deaths caused by induced abortions in 1963 and 1965, this analysis looks at reports by the then-U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, a precursor to the Department of Health and Human Services. In computing those figures, we excluded abortions listed in the report under the categories “spontaneous or unspecified” or as “other.” (“Spontaneous abortion” is another way of referring to miscarriages.)

Guttmacher data in this post comes from national surveys of abortion providers that Guttmacher has conducted 19 times since 1973. Guttmacher compiles its figures after contacting every known provider of abortions – clinics, hospitals and physicians’ offices – in the country. It uses questionnaires and health department data, and it provides estimates for abortion providers that don’t respond to its inquiries. (In 2020, the last year for which it has released data on the number of abortions in the U.S., it used estimates for 12% of abortions.) For most of the 2000s, Guttmacher has conducted these national surveys every three years, each time getting abortion data for the prior two years. For each interim year, Guttmacher has calculated estimates based on trends from its own figures and from other data.

The latest full summary of Guttmacher data came in the institute’s report titled “Abortion Incidence and Service Availability in the United States, 2020.” It includes figures for 2020 and 2019 and estimates for 2018. The report includes a methods section.

In addition, this post uses data from StatPearls, an online health care resource, on complications from abortion.

An exact answer is hard to come by. The CDC and the Guttmacher Institute have each tried to measure this for around half a century, but they use different methods and publish different figures.

The last year for which the CDC reported a yearly national total for abortions is 2021. It found there were 625,978 abortions in the District of Columbia and the 46 states with available data that year, up from 597,355 in those states and D.C. in 2020. The corresponding figure for 2019 was 607,720.

The last year for which Guttmacher reported a yearly national total was 2020. It said there were 930,160 abortions that year in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, compared with 916,460 in 2019.

• How the CDC gets its data: It compiles figures that are voluntarily reported by states’ central health agencies, including separate figures for New York City and the District of Columbia. Its latest totals do not include figures from California, Maryland, New Hampshire or New Jersey, which did not report data to the CDC. ( Read the methodology from the latest CDC report .)
• How Guttmacher gets its data: It compiles its figures after contacting every known abortion provider – clinics, hospitals and physicians’ offices – in the country. It uses questionnaires and health department data, then provides estimates for abortion providers that don’t respond. Guttmacher’s figures are higher than the CDC’s in part because they include data (and in some instances, estimates) from all 50 states. ( Read the institute’s latest full report and methodology .)

While the Guttmacher Institute supports abortion rights, its empirical data on abortions in the U.S. has been widely cited by  groups  and  publications  across the political spectrum, including by a  number of those  that  disagree with its positions .

These estimates from Guttmacher and the CDC are results of multiyear efforts to collect data on abortion across the U.S. Last year, Guttmacher also began publishing less precise estimates every few months , based on a much smaller sample of providers.

The figures reported by these organizations include only legal induced abortions conducted by clinics, hospitals or physicians’ offices, or those that make use of abortion pills dispensed from certified facilities such as clinics or physicians’ offices. They do not account for the use of abortion pills that were obtained  outside of clinical settings .

(Back to top)

The annual number of U.S. abortions rose for years after Roe v. Wade legalized the procedure in 1973, reaching its highest levels around the late 1980s and early 1990s, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher. Since then, abortions have generally decreased at what a CDC analysis called  “a slow yet steady pace.”

Guttmacher says the number of abortions occurring in the U.S. in 2020 was 40% lower than it was in 1991. According to the CDC, the number was 36% lower in 2021 than in 1991, looking just at the District of Columbia and the 46 states that reported both of those years.

(The corresponding line graph shows the long-term trend in the number of legal abortions reported by both organizations. To allow for consistent comparisons over time, the CDC figures in the chart have been adjusted to ensure that the same states are counted from one year to the next. Using that approach, the CDC figure for 2021 is 622,108 legal abortions.)

There have been occasional breaks in this long-term pattern of decline – during the middle of the first decade of the 2000s, and then again in the late 2010s. The CDC reported modest 1% and 2% increases in abortions in 2018 and 2019, and then, after a 2% decrease in 2020, a 5% increase in 2021. Guttmacher reported an 8% increase over the three-year period from 2017 to 2020.

As noted above, these figures do not include abortions that use pills obtained outside of clinical settings.

Guttmacher says that in 2020 there were 14.4 abortions in the U.S. per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44. Its data shows that the rate of abortions among women has generally been declining in the U.S. since 1981, when it reported there were 29.3 abortions per 1,000 women in that age range.

The CDC says that in 2021, there were 11.6 abortions in the U.S. per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44. (That figure excludes data from California, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Hampshire and New Jersey.) Like Guttmacher’s data, the CDC’s figures also suggest a general decline in the abortion rate over time. In 1980, when the CDC reported on all 50 states and D.C., it said there were 25 abortions per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44.

That said, both Guttmacher and the CDC say there were slight increases in the rate of abortions during the late 2010s and early 2020s. Guttmacher says the abortion rate per 1,000 women ages 15 to 44 rose from 13.5 in 2017 to 14.4 in 2020. The CDC says it rose from 11.2 per 1,000 in 2017 to 11.4 in 2019, before falling back to 11.1 in 2020 and then rising again to 11.6 in 2021. (The CDC’s figures for those years exclude data from California, D.C., Maryland, New Hampshire and New Jersey.)

The CDC broadly divides abortions into two categories: surgical abortions and medication abortions, which involve pills. Since the Food and Drug Administration first approved abortion pills in 2000, their use has increased over time as a share of abortions nationally, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher.

The majority of abortions in the U.S. now involve pills, according to both the CDC and Guttmacher. The CDC says 56% of U.S. abortions in 2021 involved pills, up from 53% in 2020 and 44% in 2019. Its figures for 2021 include the District of Columbia and 44 states that provided this data; its figures for 2020 include D.C. and 44 states (though not all of the same states as in 2021), and its figures for 2019 include D.C. and 45 states.

Guttmacher, which measures this every three years, says 53% of U.S. abortions involved pills in 2020, up from 39% in 2017.

Two pills commonly used together for medication abortions are mifepristone, which, taken first, blocks hormones that support a pregnancy, and misoprostol, which then causes the uterus to empty. According to the FDA, medication abortions are safe  until 10 weeks into pregnancy.

Surgical abortions conducted  during the first trimester  of pregnancy typically use a suction process, while the relatively few surgical abortions that occur  during the second trimester  of a pregnancy typically use a process called dilation and evacuation, according to the UCLA School of Medicine.

In 2020, there were 1,603 facilities in the U.S. that provided abortions,  according to Guttmacher . This included 807 clinics, 530 hospitals and 266 physicians’ offices.

While clinics make up half of the facilities that provide abortions, they are the sites where the vast majority (96%) of abortions are administered, either through procedures or the distribution of pills, according to Guttmacher’s 2020 data. (This includes 54% of abortions that are administered at specialized abortion clinics and 43% at nonspecialized clinics.) Hospitals made up 33% of the facilities that provided abortions in 2020 but accounted for only 3% of abortions that year, while just 1% of abortions were conducted by physicians’ offices.

Looking just at clinics – that is, the total number of specialized abortion clinics and nonspecialized clinics in the U.S. – Guttmacher found the total virtually unchanged between 2017 (808 clinics) and 2020 (807 clinics). However, there were regional differences. In the Midwest, the number of clinics that provide abortions increased by 11% during those years, and in the West by 6%. The number of clinics  decreased  during those years by 9% in the Northeast and 3% in the South.

The total number of abortion providers has declined dramatically since the 1980s. In 1982, according to Guttmacher, there were 2,908 facilities providing abortions in the U.S., including 789 clinics, 1,405 hospitals and 714 physicians’ offices.

The CDC does not track the number of abortion providers.

In the District of Columbia and the 46 states that provided abortion and residency information to the CDC in 2021, 10.9% of all abortions were performed on women known to live outside the state where the abortion occurred – slightly higher than the percentage in 2020 (9.7%). That year, D.C. and 46 states (though not the same ones as in 2021) reported abortion and residency data. (The total number of abortions used in these calculations included figures for women with both known and unknown residential status.)

The share of reported abortions performed on women outside their state of residence was much higher before the 1973 Roe decision that stopped states from banning abortion. In 1972, 41% of all abortions in D.C. and the 20 states that provided this information to the CDC that year were performed on women outside their state of residence. In 1973, the corresponding figure was 21% in the District of Columbia and the 41 states that provided this information, and in 1974 it was 11% in D.C. and the 43 states that provided data.

In the District of Columbia and the 46 states that reported age data to  the CDC in 2021, the majority of women who had abortions (57%) were in their 20s, while about three-in-ten (31%) were in their 30s. Teens ages 13 to 19 accounted for 8% of those who had abortions, while women ages 40 to 44 accounted for about 4%.

The vast majority of women who had abortions in 2021 were unmarried (87%), while married women accounted for 13%, according to  the CDC , which had data on this from 37 states.

In the District of Columbia, New York City (but not the rest of New York) and the 31 states that reported racial and ethnic data on abortion to  the CDC , 42% of all women who had abortions in 2021 were non-Hispanic Black, while 30% were non-Hispanic White, 22% were Hispanic and 6% were of other races.

Looking at abortion rates among those ages 15 to 44, there were 28.6 abortions per 1,000 non-Hispanic Black women in 2021; 12.3 abortions per 1,000 Hispanic women; 6.4 abortions per 1,000 non-Hispanic White women; and 9.2 abortions per 1,000 women of other races, the  CDC reported  from those same 31 states, D.C. and New York City.

For 57% of U.S. women who had induced abortions in 2021, it was the first time they had ever had one,  according to the CDC.  For nearly a quarter (24%), it was their second abortion. For 11% of women who had an abortion that year, it was their third, and for 8% it was their fourth or more. These CDC figures include data from 41 states and New York City, but not the rest of New York.

Nearly four-in-ten women who had abortions in 2021 (39%) had no previous live births at the time they had an abortion,  according to the CDC . Almost a quarter (24%) of women who had abortions in 2021 had one previous live birth, 20% had two previous live births, 10% had three, and 7% had four or more previous live births. These CDC figures include data from 41 states and New York City, but not the rest of New York.

The vast majority of abortions occur during the first trimester of a pregnancy. In 2021, 93% of abortions occurred during the first trimester – that is, at or before 13 weeks of gestation,  according to the CDC . An additional 6% occurred between 14 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, and about 1% were performed at 21 weeks or more of gestation. These CDC figures include data from 40 states and New York City, but not the rest of New York.

About 2% of all abortions in the U.S. involve some type of complication for the woman , according to an article in StatPearls, an online health care resource. “Most complications are considered minor such as pain, bleeding, infection and post-anesthesia complications,” according to the article.

The CDC calculates  case-fatality rates for women from induced abortions – that is, how many women die from abortion-related complications, for every 100,000 legal abortions that occur in the U.S .  The rate was lowest during the most recent period examined by the agency (2013 to 2020), when there were 0.45 deaths to women per 100,000 legal induced abortions. The case-fatality rate reported by the CDC was highest during the first period examined by the agency (1973 to 1977), when it was 2.09 deaths to women per 100,000 legal induced abortions. During the five-year periods in between, the figure ranged from 0.52 (from 1993 to 1997) to 0.78 (from 1978 to 1982).

The CDC calculates death rates by five-year and seven-year periods because of year-to-year fluctuation in the numbers and due to the relatively low number of women who die from legal induced abortions.

In 2020, the last year for which the CDC has information , six women in the U.S. died due to complications from induced abortions. Four women died in this way in 2019, two in 2018, and three in 2017. (These deaths all followed legal abortions.) Since 1990, the annual number of deaths among women due to legal induced abortion has ranged from two to 12.

The annual number of reported deaths from induced abortions (legal and illegal) tended to be higher in the 1980s, when it ranged from nine to 16, and from 1972 to 1979, when it ranged from 13 to 63. One driver of the decline was the drop in deaths from illegal abortions. There were 39 deaths from illegal abortions in 1972, the last full year before Roe v. Wade. The total fell to 19 in 1973 and to single digits or zero every year after that. (The number of deaths from legal abortions has also declined since then, though with some slight variation over time.)

The number of deaths from induced abortions was considerably higher in the 1960s than afterward. For instance, there were 119 deaths from induced abortions in  1963  and 99 in  1965 , according to reports by the then-U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, a precursor to the Department of Health and Human Services. The CDC is a division of Health and Human Services.

Note: This is an update of a post originally published May 27, 2022, and first updated June 24, 2022.

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Key facts about the abortion debate in America

Public opinion on abortion, three-in-ten or more democrats and republicans don’t agree with their party on abortion, partisanship a bigger factor than geography in views of abortion access locally, do state laws on abortion reflect public opinion, most popular.

About Pew Research Center Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts .

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I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University is the oldest leading medical university in Russia that has become a cradle of most medical schools and scientific societies of our country. For decades it has been unofficially known as “First Med”.University success is based on a blend of glorious traditions and actual innovative approaches multiplied by a great potential of human resources. We are proud to be a unique educational, scientific and medical complex that graduates, certifies and provides lifelong professional education for physicians and other healthcare workers; that contributes significantly to the domestic and global medicine. The University is closely linked to the fundamental and applied research, highly efficient medical treatment, and propaganda of medical and pharmaceutical achievements. Our University is rich with knowledge and experience that is generously transferred to our students, to those whose mission will be to face the challenges of the 21st century in the field of medicine and people aiding, to implement new methods and technologies in healthcare.

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Travel Blog, Itineraries & Guides, Hotel Reviews

Moscow or St. Petersburg – Which Russian City Is Better?

June 4, 2017 by Bino 7 Comments

As two of the most popular tourist destinations in Russia, most travelers who visit the world’s largest countries end up making their way to both Moscow and St. Petersburg. Both cities have a wealth of attractions, including palaces, churches as well as exciting culinary and nightlife scenes. But what if you find yourself able to visit only one – should you visit Moscow or St. Petersburg? Alternatively, if you have time for both, in which city do you spend more days?

During a recent trip to Russia, I had a similar problem deciding. My trip allowed me to visit both cities but I was not sure in the beginning whether I should stay for more days in Moscow or St. Petersburg. As such, the comparison I am going to do here applies both to those trying to allocate the number of days between the two cities as well as those who have enough time to visit only one,

As Russia’s capital, the city serves as the financial center of the country. The city is highly cosmopolitan. You will find a large number of people from all around Russia here and even people from the former Soviet republics. Moscow also has a noticeable expat population and you’ll find various types of eateries here from Japanese to French as well as Italian – the latter which local chefs do very well.

a view of the kremlin over the moskva river

While the city sits firmly in Europe and plenty of the surrounding architecture are certainly typical of the continent, Moscow can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming (and clogged), not to mention polluted due to the smoke coming out of the cars. There are plenty of highways circling the city to reach areas outside the central core. Moscow is definitely one of the great cities of the world.

• Moscow is one of the world’s largest cities and you won’t get bored here. There are plenty of districts from which to explore. Personally, I love the area surrounding the Patriarshy Ponds filled with plenty of charming shops and hip restaurants.
• If you decide to spend more time or devote your entire time in Russia to Moscow, you’ll be pleased that there are plenty of day trip and excursion opportunities from here. The towns around the golden ring, i.e. Suzdal, Vladimir, Sergiev Posad, etc are either a car or train ride away and can easily keep you preoccupied for a couple of days.
• The city is not as touristy as St. Petersburg and that’s a good thing. I visited the Kolomenskoye Park for example, which houses a UNESCO World Heritage Site, without encountering the tour groups I typically see in St. Petersburg.
• If the hipster culture interests you, you’ll be pleased that you have plenty of options in Moscow. The most prominent is Flacon , a short walk from Dmitrovskaya station.

the izmailovo kremlin – one of the places you should include in your moscow trip

• Overall, I found Moscow to be more expensive – both in terms of hotels, food as well as transport. The Russian capital is frequently ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world. All it takes is a visit to the iconic GUM shopping mall to see the astronomical prices.
• If you are visiting Moscow independently, you might find getting by via public transport a bit confusing. When taking the metro in particular, the signs are all in Cyrillic so it’s helpful to learn a bit of the alphabet in order to familiarize yourself with the names of the places. If any consolation, some of the stations are among the most beautiful subway stations in the world.
• While both Moscow and St. Petersburg have less charming Soviet style buildings, you’ll find more in Moscow – being once the capital of the Soviet Union.
• There are no shortage of sights in Moscow but many of them are scattered all around the city. Interesting places in the outskirts include: Kolomenskoye Park, the Izmailovo Kremlin, Novodevichy Convent and Flaocon. But these are at different directions from the center.

Where I stayed in Moscow: I found the InterContinental Tverskaya Moscow to be conveniently located. It’s within a short walk from at least 3 metro stations while the Red Square is just down the road. Service overall is fantastic compared to other Moscow hotels and vacation rental options and there are good deals to be had during weekends. You can also compare the best prices for hotels in Moscow HERE .

St. Petersburg

view of st. petersburg from st. isaac’s cathedral

Established some 300 years ago by Peter the Great, St. Petersburg probably ranks among the most visually appealing cities in Europe. Almost any building in the central core for example can be considered as a tourist attraction. The city is one of the great touristic cities in Europe – hosting plenty of daytrippers from cruises around the Baltics or Scandinavia.

inside the church of spilled blood in st. petersburg

• The city is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe with plenty of classical and baroque architecture. Peter the Great spared no expense in hiring the best architects from Western Europe when he established the city.
• St. Petersburg is relatively cheaper than Moscow. Uber rides between most points within the city center don’t go beyond $5.
• Many of the tourist attractions are concentrated within the center so it’s fairly easy to walk from one attraction to another or take a short cab ride.
• The city derives a good part of its income in tourism and you’ll find plenty of signs in English and even in other foreign languages. While I was there, I saw many restaurants and shops displaying signs in Chinese.

outside the hermitage

• While you will find daytrip opportunities in the form of Petrograd as well as Catherine Palace, they’re significantly less than if you choose to base yourself in Moscow.
• St. Petersburg can get quite touristy and you could find the crowds a bit maddening and you might even need to queue for a long time to enter. It’s possible to purchase tickets for some attractions online but others are available only on the spot.

Where I stayed in St. Petersburg: I was pleasantly surprised by the Crowne Plaza Ligovsky . Some of the rooms are styled like a palace with engravings on the walls. Fresh juices were served during breakfast – something relatively unheard of for a 4 star hotel. Best of all, it is located just across Galeria, one of the biggest shopping malls in St. Petersburg. You can also check out some other hotels and compare the best prices HERE for St. Petersburg.

Where to go if you could choose only one city?

Both Moscow and St. Petersburg are great in their own ways. However, if your stay in Russia is very short and barring any other limitations, I would suggest going to St. Petersburg instead. My reasons are as follows: St. Petersburg is quicker to navigate. You can finish most of the main attractions within a couple of days by focusing on the city center and perhaps visiting the area north of the river. In contrast, Moscow is quite spread out. The city is so much more than the Kremlin and Red Square that it will take you more days to really see the city. It would be better to visit Moscow next time when you have more days to spare.

If you have enough time for both cities, where should you allocate more days?

On the other hand, if you have more time to visit both cities and are deciding where to allocate more days – I would suggest allocating more days for Moscow. Other than the extra time required to see the city outskirts, you could also use the extra days to arrange excursions to the cities in the Golden Ring. Also check out my suggested one week itinerary for Russia . Alternatively, you can also consider venturing to Russia’s third capital, the multicultural city of Kazan if you have time.

Tips for Russia

• Know the Cyrillic alphabet  – the local alphabet is not difficult and is actually quite fun to learn especially after you learn how many words sound the same in both Russian and English! This will help greatly when you navigate metro stations and read shop signs.
• Travel insurance – If you are going for a simple eating trip near your home country, travel insurance may not be needed but for Russia which is quite far and rather exotic, I decided to purchase one. I bought from  this provider which has a higher than average medical coverage and compensates you for things like accidents and lost items at a relatively cheap price.
• Buy metro cards – Getting the metro cards in cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg will save you lots when it comes to transport cost and is far more convenient than buying tickets on the spot. For places that are not covered by the metro, you can consider ride-sharing apps like UBER.

You May Also Like

Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment below. Alternatively, you can also email me at b i n o (at) iwandered.net. You can follow I Wander on Facebook , Telegram , or Instagram . Also, if you liked this article, please feel free to SHARE or RETWEET

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August 31, 2018 at 7:19 am

I’m researching whether to choose Moscow or St. Petersburg and this helped me decide. St. Petersburg it is. Thank you!

January 5, 2019 at 6:53 am

I have been to moscow and lived there for a while i only find out that in moscow people are so aggressive and not friendly at all. If you don’t kniw the Russian language then it means you would be in problems. People don’t like to help others. if you can’t find any address don’t ask any one they will not answer you.time is money for them they don’t waist time for you.

May 24, 2019 at 12:03 pm

That’s surprising! Me and a friend spent a week in Moscow without knowing a drop of Russian and everyone was so friendly and helpful to us. Sorry to hear your experience wasn’t too good 🙁

November 7, 2019 at 3:10 pm

Really??? You were extremely unlucky…

February 1, 2019 at 8:46 am

Im 17yrs old and i am being offered full scholarship in senior high in russia. I am told to select moscow or st petersburg. Thank you for this, i might pick st petersburg.

November 5, 2019 at 2:08 am

Thank you for all the helpful information. There are a lot of blogs comparing the two cities, but your info is really concise and practical.

I will plan to visit both but spend a bit more time in Moscow (if I can afford the hotels!!).

What time of year were you in Russia? I would like to go during the White Nights Festival in St. Petersburg.

November 7, 2019 at 10:37 am

Hi, I was there in May.

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