Care through every trimester
Every pregnancy is different, so your check-ups follow your needs. Broadly, this is how care is planned at the clinic.
First trimester (up to 12 weeks)
- Confirming the pregnancy and working out your due date
- Advice on folic acid, diet, rest and medicines that are safe
- Help with nausea, vomiting and tiredness
- First blood tests and the early scans that are recommended for you
Second trimester (13 to 27 weeks)
- Regular checks of your weight, blood pressure and the baby's growth
- The detailed anomaly scan, usually done between 18 and 22 weeks
- A sugar test for gestational diabetes, usually between 24 and 28 weeks
- Guidance on iron, calcium, diet and safe exercise
Third trimester (28 weeks to delivery)
- More frequent visits to monitor blood pressure and the baby's position and movements
- Birth planning, including preparing for a normal delivery where it is safe
- Advice on signs of labour and when to go to hospital
How often are antenatal check-ups?
For a healthy pregnancy, visits are usually once a month until about 28 weeks, every two weeks until 36 weeks, and every week after that. If you have a medical condition or any complication, Dr. Surabhi will see you more often.
High-risk pregnancy
Some pregnancies need closer watching: high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, anaemia, twins, a previous caesarean or a previous miscarriage. In these cases your check-ups, tests and delivery plan are adjusted to keep you and your baby safe, and you are referred to a specialist or hospital whenever that is the safer choice.
Call the doctor straight away if you have
- Bleeding or leaking of water from the vagina
- Severe headache, blurred vision or swelling of the face and hands
- Fewer baby movements than usual (after about 28 weeks)
- Severe pain in the abdomen, or fever
In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 108.
After delivery
Care continues after your baby is born: postnatal check-ups, help with breastfeeding, stitches and recovery, and advice on contraception when you are ready.
Written and reviewed by Dr. Surabhi Waman-Ghaisas, MS OBGY (ISM), Dr. Surabhi's Gynocare Clinic, Bhugaon. This page is general information and does not replace a consultation.