Antenatal care

When will my first antenatal appointment be?

This depends on where you live. Ask at your GP surgery or ring your local maternity unit to find out how it works in your area. Your first appointment with a midwife will probably be before 12 weeks. You may also receive an appointment for your first scan around this time too.

Who will see me during my pregnancy?

In most cases you will see a midwife for your first “booking” appointment and for your check-ups during the pregnancy. These appointments may be in your GP surgery, hospital, maternity unit or possibly at your home.

You will probably see a sonographer for any scans which usually take place in the hospital. You may also see a doctor at the hospital during your pregnancy if you have any complications.

Who should come with me to my antenatal appointments?

It is completely up to you. You can take your partner, your mum, your sister, your friend, a social worker or anyone else who you feel will support you. Or you can go on your own if you prefer.

If you decide to bring someone with you, the midwife may ask to see you on your own at least once in case there is anything you want to tell her that you don’t want to say in front of the other person.

Will I have an internal examination?

No, it’s unlikely you will have an internal examination (inside your vagina) until you go into labour unless there is any concern that needs to be investigated.

You will probably have one when you go into labour to find out how far advanced your labour is. Your doctor or midwife should ask your permission and explain why you are being offered an internal examination.

I don't want to have a blood test. Can they make me?

No, but a blood test gives your antenatal team important information about your health that may affect the care you and your baby later need. You will usually be offered blood tests at your first booking appointment and only once or a couple of times during the pregnancy. If you are worried about the test, or are afraid of needles, talk to your midwife about your concerns.

I didn't realise I was pregnant until four months into the pregnancy. Can I still have the tests?

Most of the tests for your own health can be started whenever you start having antenatal care. But the tests that check on the risk that your baby has disabilities or other health conditions can only be done at particular times in your pregnancy, so you may have missed out on these. Talk to your midwife about your options.

I've had an abortion before but my husband doesn't know.

Ask to see your midwife alone (perhaps tell your husband you feel embarrassed in front of him). Or take the phone number of the hospital or health centre and phone your midwife to arrange to speak to her privately. This information does not need to be recorded in your hand-held notes (the notes that you take home with you and bring to each appointment).

I'm worried the midwife will think I'm stupid if I ask her questions.

All pregnant women (whatever their age) have loads of questions. No one will look down on you for asking as many questions as you need. The most important thing is that you feel that you know what's going on, so if you have questions, or aren't sure you've understood properly, keep asking.