T.P.
Hi A.,
I am a nurse who works for an Ob/Gyne and I can tell you that we do not do internal exams unless it is really necessary. Once you are 37 weeks, however, your OB will probably do a cervical check with each visit. These exams can be rather painful and cause a little spotting. We hate to mess around 'down there' unless there is a really good reason to. As far as what is considered 'normal' during pregnancy, well, that is a VERY broad category!!! Unless you are bleeding, having regular contractions or swollen up like a balloon, almost anything that happens is considered 'normal'!!! That is because not only is every woman different, but each pregnancy you have will have different sorts of aches and pains to go along with it.
If you feel your doc or nurse is not giving you the attention you need, tell them!! Go in there with a list of questions and look them in the eyes and say "I need you to explain this to me". I know that at my office, I always take the time to really talk to my pregnant patients and make them feel as comfortable with their pregnancy as I can. If you have any specific questions or need any advice you can send me a message. I just had my first child 4 months ago so not only do I have the clinical knowledge, I have personal experience now, too!
Best of luck to you!
T.