Antenatal care refers to the care you receive from healthcare professionals during pregnancy. This includes care from a midwife, and sometimes from an obstetrician (a doctor who specializes in pregnancy and childbirth). It is also sometimes called pregnancy care or maternity care.
Starting antenatal care early helps ensure you and your baby stay as healthy as possible throughout pregnancy.
What Is Antenatal Care?
Antenatal care is designed to keep both you and your baby in the best possible health. During appointments, your midwife or doctor will:
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Check the health of you and your baby
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Provide practical advice on diet, exercise, and pregnancy care
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Discuss options for labor and childbirth
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Answer any questions you may have
In England, you’ll typically be offered:
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Two pregnancy scans: one at 11–14 weeks, another at 18–21 weeks
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Screening tests for conditions such as Down’s syndrome
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Blood tests for syphilis, HIV, and hepatitis B
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Screening for sickle cell disease and thalassaemia
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Antenatal classes, such as breastfeeding workshops (ask your midwife for local details)
How to Start Antenatal Care
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Referral: You can self-refer to NHS pregnancy care, usually via an online form. If that’s not possible, check your local NHS trust website for instructions.
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First Appointment: Aim to see a midwife before you are 10 weeks pregnant.
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GP Notification: Your GP will automatically be informed after your first midwife appointment—unless you need to discuss medication or long-term health conditions.
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Early Tests: Some screenings (such as for sickle cell or thalassaemia) should be done before 10 weeks. If you’re already past this stage, still refer yourself as soon as possible.
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Special Needs: If you have a disability, language barrier, or medical condition, let your midwife know early so support can be arranged.
How Many Appointments Will You Have?
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First pregnancy: Up to 10 appointments
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Subsequent pregnancies: Around 7 appointments (more if needed)
Your midwife will provide a written schedule early on, and you can discuss changes if required.
Where Do Antenatal Appointments Take Place?
Appointments may be held at:
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Your home
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A children’s centre
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A GP surgery
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A hospital (ultrasounds are usually hospital-based)
These settings also provide a safe space to talk about sensitive issues such as domestic abuse, mental health concerns, or drug use.
Routine checks may include:
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Urine tests
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Blood pressure monitoring
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Baby growth measurements
What Questions Will You Be Asked?
To provide the best care, your midwife or doctor may ask about:
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The date of your last period
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Your medical history and previous pregnancies
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Family history of twins or inherited conditions
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Your ethnic background (important for some genetic risks)
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Your occupation, lifestyle, and living environment
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Your emotional wellbeing
You’ll also be able to share any concerns—such as safety at home or support needs.
Antenatal Appointments After 24 Weeks
From 24 weeks, appointments usually become more frequent. If your pregnancy is low risk, they may still be relatively few. Later visits are shorter (20–30 minutes).
These appointments usually include:
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Checking urine and blood pressure
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Feeling your abdomen to assess baby’s position
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Measuring your uterus for growth
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Listening to your baby’s heartbeat (if you’d like)
You’ll also receive important third-trimester information, including:
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Creating a birth plan
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Signs of active labor
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Induction if you go overdue
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Postnatal care and baby feeding options
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Vitamin K for newborns
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Screening tests for your baby
Monitoring Your Baby’s Movements
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By 24 weeks, you should start feeling regular movements. If not, contact your midwife.
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After this stage, any reduction or change in movements should be checked immediately—don’t wait until your next appointment.
Your midwife may recommend an ultrasound if there are concerns about your baby’s growth or development.
Maternity Notes
Your midwife will start a maternity record (either paper or digital) at your first appointment. These are updated throughout pregnancy.
👉 Always bring your notes to appointments and keep them with you when going out, in case medical care is needed.
Tips for Planning Ahead
Waiting times at clinics can vary, which can be challenging if you have young children with you. A little planning—such as arranging childcare or bringing snacks—can make the process smoother.
✅ Key Takeaway:
Start antenatal care as soon as you find out you’re pregnant. Early appointments help detect potential risks, provide important health information, and support you in preparing for labor, birth, and life with your newborn.