Ante-Natal Examinations

The following describes the ante-natal care for an uncomplicated pregnancy. Some visits may take place in your GPs surgery others in hospital. Your GP will usually give you a booking form to take to your first appointment. As chlamydia is on the increase amongst young people, younger mothers may also be offered this test. This is done with a swab which you can do yourself.

Booking Visit 6-10 Weeks	The midwife will discuss the screening tests, enabling you to make informed decisions on the tests that you will be offered throughout pregnancy, your consent is required for all tests and examinations undertaken. Your weight & height will be taken
12 weeks	Urine testing Scan Bloods tests
16 weeks	Diet & lifestyle will be discussed You will receive blood forms for blood that is taken at 28 weeks You will receive a leaflet regarding the Glucose test (also called the Lucozade test) that is carried out at 28 weeks
20 weeks	optional visit with midwife/GP if required e.g. questions about the scan
24 weeks	Blood pressure checked Urine checked for protein (abnormal amounts of protein in urine AND high blood pressure can mean that pre-eclampsia is possible)  Abdominal examination and your baby's movements will be discussed at this and all subsequent visits. Discuss Ante-Natal classes Maternity Certificate issued if required
28 weeks	Repeat blood tests done Glucose test performed Abdominal examination Blood pressure checked Urine tested for protein
32 weeks	visit for Blood Pressure, urine testing & abdominal examination (this visit is only if required for first time mothers)
34 weeks	If haemoglobin (full blood test) result is low you will be given iron & your blood will be retested in 4 weeks Blood Pressure checked Urine checked Abdominal examination
36 weeks	Blood Pressure checked Urine checked for protein Abdominal palpation done Repeat blood tests if required
38 weeks	Blood Pressure checked Urine checked for protein Abdominal examination
40 weeks	Blood Pressure checked Urine checked for protein Abdominal examination You will be offered a membrane sweep at the next appointment at 41 weeks to help you go into labour. This will be explained by the midwife.
41 weeks	Blood Pressure checked Urine checked for protein Abdominal examination A membrane sweep will be performed if you agree Induction date will be given if required. The recommendation from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) is that pregnancies that continue until 42 weeks are NORMAL for healthy pregnant women. Your midwife will discuss this from 41 weeks. More information is available from NICE and Informed Choice.