Services › Antenatal Care
Antenatal Care
Antenatal care means checking the health of both mother and baby at regular intervals throughout pregnancy. The aim is to confirm that all is well and, where a problem exists, to detect it early enough to act in good time.
How the follow-up works
At the first visit we review your medical history, previous illnesses, current medication and earlier pregnancies. The location and gestational age of the pregnancy are confirmed by ultrasound.
In an uncomplicated pregnancy, visits are usually every four weeks, becoming more frequent in the final months. Blood pressure, weight, fetal growth and heartbeat are assessed at each visit.
Main assessments during pregnancy
- Weeks 11-14: nuchal translucency measurement and combined screening test
- NIPT (analysis of fetal DNA from maternal blood) where appropriate
- Weeks 18-23: detailed anomaly scan
- Weeks 24-28: glucose tolerance test for gestational diabetes
- Full blood count, blood group and, if relevant, Rh incompatibility follow-up
- Growth, amniotic fluid and presentation monitoring in the final weeks
When to seek help without waiting
- Bleeding or leaking of fluid
- Severe, persistent abdominal pain
- A marked reduction in fetal movements
- Severe headache, blurred vision or sudden swelling
- Fever, chills or burning on passing urine
Planning the birth
The mode of delivery is discussed by weighing the mother’s health, the baby’s condition and any previous birth history together. Both vaginal birth and caesarean section have their own indications; the decision rests on the pregnancy as a whole rather than on any single measure.