Antenatal Care
From the booking visit to the birth, with one doctor who knows you
Antenatal care here is a planned series of visits rather than a string of separate appointments. The first visit takes a full history, confirms the pregnancy and dates it, and sets out which checks and tests come at which week, so you know what is coming and why. Later visits look at your blood pressure, your baby's growth and movements, and your own questions, which are given real time. Where something needs more than routine follow-up you are told early and plainly, and the plan changes with it. The same doctor sees you throughout, so your history is never explained twice.
- One doctor from the booking visit through to delivery
- A schedule of visits and tests explained at the start
- Time for the second question, and the third
- Early, plain-spoken notice if your care needs to change
What to expect
- 01
Booking visit
History, examination, dating and the first tests, with the plan for the rest of the pregnancy laid out.
- 02
Regular check-ups
Blood pressure, growth, your baby's movements and the tests due at each stage, reviewed with you each time.
- 03
Preparing for the birth
Delivery options, what to pack, when to call, and who to ask for when labour starts.
Common questions
- When should I book my first visit?
- As soon as you know you are pregnant, ideally in the first trimester. Earlier is better because dating and the first tests are easier to do well at the start.
- How often will I be seen?
- The usual pattern is more frequent visits as the pregnancy goes on, and you will be given the schedule at your first appointment. If your pregnancy needs closer watching, that is said clearly and the visits are added.
- When should I go to a hospital instead of waiting for an appointment?
- Heavy bleeding, severe or constant abdominal pain, your baby clearly moving less than usual, fluid leaking from the vagina, a severe headache with blurred vision, or a fit. Go to an emergency department for any of these.
Book your consultation
A fever that will not settle, a check-up you have been putting off, or a second opinion. Choose a service, pick a time and confirm in minutes.