Antenatal care is the regular series of check-ups during pregnancy that monitor your health and your baby’s growth. It is one of the most important things you can do for a healthy pregnancy, catching any concerns early and giving you the information and support you need.
What is antenatal care?
Antenatal (or prenatal) care is the planned schedule of appointments, scans and tests through pregnancy. Our private antenatal and maternity care provides continuity with the same team, so you build trust throughout your pregnancy.
What happens at appointments
- Checking your blood pressure, weight and general health
- Monitoring your baby’s growth and heartbeat
- Blood and urine tests at the recommended stages
- Ultrasound scans to check development
- Time to ask questions and discuss your birth plan
Each antenatal consultation is also a chance to talk through anything worrying you.
The schedule
Appointments are more frequent in the first and third trimesters. Your physician sets a personalised schedule, with extra visits if any additional monitoring is needed.
Screening during antenatal care
Screening tests, including NIPT and ultrasound, are offered at specific stages. These are always your choice, and your team explains what each one can tell you.
When to call between appointments
Contact your team if you notice bleeding, reduced baby movements, severe headache, swelling, or severe pain. Do not wait for your next appointment if something worries you.
See the full pregnancy care guide and our price list.
Sources: WHO antenatal care guidance, NICE, RCOG. This article is for general education and does not replace a medical consultation. Reviewed by Assist. Prof. Dr. Muzaffer Uçarer (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), UCARER Women’s Health, Istanbul.
