Pregnancy is a journey of constant change, and good maternity care keeps both mother and baby safe at every stage. Regular antenatal visits catch problems early – often before you feel anything is wrong – and give you a trusted team to turn to with every question.
Your first visit: the foundation
Book your first antenatal visit as soon as you know you are pregnant, ideally in the first three months. The doctor will confirm the pregnancy, estimate your delivery date, review your health history, and order baseline blood tests and an early ultrasound. You will usually be advised folic acid, which helps protect the baby’s brain and spine development.
Checkups through pregnancy
- First trimester: screening tests and a scan to check the baby’s early development.
- Second trimester: the anomaly scan around 18-22 weeks, blood sugar screening for gestational diabetes, and growth checks.
- Third trimester: more frequent visits, growth scans, blood pressure and urine checks at every visit, and monitoring of the baby’s position and heartbeat.
At every stage, report warning signs promptly: bleeding, severe headache, blurred vision, swelling of the face and hands, abdominal pain, leaking fluid, or reduced baby movements.
Eating, activity and rest
Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, calcium and protein, take supplements exactly as prescribed, and stay gently active with walking or pregnancy-safe exercise if your doctor agrees. Avoid alcohol and smoking completely, and never take medicines in pregnancy without checking first.
Planning your delivery
As your due date approaches, discuss your birth plan: pain relief options, who will be with you, and what happens if a caesarean delivery becomes necessary. Visit the labour ward in advance, keep your hospital bag ready from week 36, and save the hospital’s number where your family can find it.
Expecting a baby? Start your maternity care with us early – our obstetric team will support you from the first visit to delivery day and beyond.
Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy is different – please follow your obstetrician’s guidance.