What is it?
Antenatal care means monitoring the health of the mother-to-be and her baby through check-ups arranged across the stages of pregnancy. In the first trimester the location and age of the pregnancy are confirmed; in the following months the baby’s growth, blood pressure, weight and blood values are followed. Which tests are done and when is planned by the doctor according to the course of the pregnancy and individual risks.
Who is it for?
- Expectant mothers with a positive pregnancy test planning their first visit
- Women who have previously experienced pregnancy loss or a difficult pregnancy
- Women with a long-term condition such as thyroid disease, diabetes or high blood pressure who need closer monitoring
- Expectant mothers who wish to continue care started elsewhere
How does it work?
First assessment
Ultrasound confirms the gestational age, the heartbeat and that the pregnancy is inside the womb; baseline blood tests are arranged.
First-trimester screening
Between weeks 11 and 14, a nuchal translucency scan and, where recommended, blood tests are used for screening.
Anomaly scan and glucose screening
The baby’s organs are examined in detail at weeks 18 to 22, and a glucose tolerance test is assessed at weeks 24 to 28.
Late-pregnancy monitoring
Visits become more frequent towards the end; the baby’s position and growth are checked and, if needed, the heartbeat is recorded with a non-stress test.
Afterwards and recovery
Care does not end at birth; the mother’s health is reviewed again in the first weeks after delivery. Visit intervals vary from person to person depending on how the pregnancy progresses and are set by the doctor after examination.