Antenatal care and classes
Antenatal care monitors your health and the health of your baby during your pregnancy. Your first appointment will be around eight to 12 weeks into your pregnancy and usually takes place at the hospital or clinic.
What happens?
You will be asked a number of questions relating to your health and family history. It’s also a good opportunity for you to ask questions and clear up any issues you may be worrying about.
How often are my appointments?
Each hospital may differ. Generally, you can expect to have appointments every four weeks after week 12 of your pregnancy, every two weeks from week 32 and every week during the last three to four weeks. This doesn’t include appointments for your scans or other tests that you may need.
Over the course of your pregnancy, routine checks may include:
- weight
- blood pressure
- listening to your baby’s heartbeat
- asking about the movement of your baby
- urine tests
- your general well being
Antenatal classes
These are usually held in your local hospital or health centre and are free of charge. You can attend private classes, although you may have to pay for these.
Topics may include:
- exercise and fitness during pregnancy and to help with labour
- coping with labour and the birth
- preparing for a new baby
- feeding
- your health and wellbeing