Your first visit is usually between 8-10 weeks of pregnancy. This consultation will involve a medical check-up and a discussion to plan your pregnancy – it will take around 30-60 minutes and may also include an ultrasound. A full medical and family history will be taken and a physical examination performed.

You will also have blood tests ordered that check your blood group, rhesus status, and blood count, and we screen for Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV and Syphilis, as well as test your immunity to Rubella (German measles), Varicella (chicken pox) and Parvovirus (slapped cheek virus). We will also check your vitamin D and iron levels, and your thyroid function. A midstream urine sample is tested for infection and prenatal screening for fetal abnormalities will be discussed.

Most women will have visits approximately once a month until 28 weeks, then every 2-3 weeks until 36 weeks, then weekly until birth. Blood tests and ultrasound scans are performed during the pregnancy, a plan for which will be given to you during your first visit. Your partner or a close family member is welcome at these appointments and most welcome at the birth of your baby. Your postnatal visit is usually 6-8 weeks after birth.

We encourage you to write down any questions that may arise between appointments so we can discuss them during your visits. We will also discuss your wishes for the birth, hospital stay and breast-feeding from 30 weeks of pregnancy. We will also provide you with notes that contain important medical information, including your blood group – these notes will be updated throughout your pregnancy and should be taken with you when you go into hospital.

 

The information contained is not meant to replace medical advice.  Should you have any questions or concerns regarding your health, please contact your health care professional.