Antenatal care
What happens at the first antenatal visit?
A full history, examination, blood and urine tests, and a plan for the rest of your pregnancy.
At booking your provider asks about your health, past pregnancies, medicines and family history. They check your weight, blood pressure and urine, and take blood for haemoglobin, blood group, HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B.
You will be given your dates, iron and folic acid where needed, and a date for your next visit. This is a good time to ask any question you have.
What you can do
- Ask for your expected due date in writing
- Ask what your blood pressure and haemoglobin were
- Keep your maternity record safe and bring it every time
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.