Antenatal Care
Antenatal care during your pregnancy
- What are antenatal appointments?
- Why go to antenatal appointments?
- Who will I be seeing at my antenatal appointments?
- What will happen during the appointments?
- How many antenatal appointments will I have?
- Can my partner come along too?
What are antenatal appointments?
Upon confirmation of pregnancy, it’s crucial to promptly schedule appointments with your GP or a midwife to initiate necessary care. These appointments, termed antenatal appointments or antenatal care, are essential for monitoring your pregnancy’s progress and ensuring your and your baby’s health.
Why go to antenatal appointments?
Antenatal appointments play a vital role in maintaining the health of both you and your baby, with your GP, midwife, and healthcare team working together to ensure optimal care. Attending these appointments, even if your pregnancy is progressing smoothly and you feel well, is crucial for identifying and addressing any potential risks early on.
These appointments also serve as valuable opportunities to address any questions or concerns you may have about your pregnancy, including details about each trimester, physical symptoms, and childbirth. Additionally, you can seek guidance on caring for your baby post-birth, alongside receiving support for lifestyle adjustments such as mental health, nutrition, smoking cessation, or alcohol avoidance. Open discussions about any challenges you encounter are encouraged to ensure comprehensive care throughout your pregnancy journey.
Who will I be seeing at my antenatal appointments?
Before selecting a midwife, you might opt to visit your own GP initially. The choice ultimately rests with you. Factors such as whether you plan to deliver at a public hospital can influence this decision; in such cases, you’re likely to receive care from a doctor or midwife at the hospital.
If your birth plan involves a birth center, your appointments will likely take place with a midwife at the center. Conversely, if you’re opting for a private hospital delivery, your appointments will probably be held with your obstetrician at their clinic.
For those considering a home birth, antenatal care is typically provided by a midwife either at your home, hospital, or within the community. The location and provider of your antenatal care may vary based on your birthing preferences and healthcare arrangements.
What will happen during the appointments?
Antenatal care during your pregnancy is tailored to:
- Your health status and any potential risks for you or your baby.
- The stage of your pregnancy.
- Any specific issues or concerns you may be facing.
This care involves a range of checks, scans, tests, and discussions, including:
- Determining your due date and discussing the trimester implications.
- Reviewing your medical history, overall health, and previous pregnancies.
- Assessing any medications you’re taking and ensuring cervical screening is up to date.
- Addressing mental health concerns, providing support for conditions like depression or anxiety.
- Monitoring blood pressure, weight, urine, and conducting necessary blood tests and screenings.
- Offering guidance on healthy eating habits and lifestyle adjustments.
- Physical examinations such as measuring your tummy and listening to the baby’s heartbeat.
- Discussing your home environment, work situation, and available support, including addressing issues like family violence.
- Addressing any physical discomforts or symptoms.
- Reviewing and discussing your birth plan, including contingency plans.
- Exploring options for antenatal classes.
- Providing advice on newborn care, feeding, and other postnatal considerations.
How many antenatal appointments will I have?
For first pregnancies without complications, expect around 8 to 10 antenatal appointments, as outlined by your GP or midwife during your initial visit. If you’ve had an uncomplicated pregnancy before, anticipate approximately 7 to 9 appointments for subsequent pregnancies.
However, the frequency of visits may vary if complications arise. In such cases, your midwife or doctor might increase the number of appointments and recommend additional tests and scans to monitor the situation closely. Don’t hesitate to schedule appointments if you encounter any problems or have concerns during your pregnancy. Your healthcare provider is there to support you throughout this journey
Can my partner come along too?
It’s advisable to have your birth support partner, a family member, or a friend accompany you to your appointments, especially when discussing your birth plan and if you desire their support during labor.
