The flurry of medical appointments to ensure that you and your baby are healthy marks exciting milestones on your pregnancy journey, such as the first time you hear your baby’s heartbeat and the first time you see them moving.
In the UK, routine tests and screenings are offered throughout pregnancy to monitor your baby’s development and to identify any potential concerns early. We’ve created a handy guide to help you understand what to expect at each stage of pregnancy.
Initial Appointments: Setting the Foundations
Your first midwife appointment, often called the booking appointment, typically takes place around week 8 to 10 of your pregnancy. During this visit, your midwife will:
- Take a detailed medical history.
- Check your blood pressure, height, and weight.
- Arrange for blood tests to check your blood group, iron levels, and immunity to certain infections.
- Test your urine for protein or signs of infection.
Ultrasound Scans: A Closer Look
Ultrasound scans are key milestones in your pregnancy, and one which people look forward to greatly.
- Dating Scan (8–14 weeks): Determines your due date and checks for multiple pregnancies.
- Anomaly Scan (18–21 weeks): A detailed examination of your baby’s organs, growth, and development to identify any abnormalities.
Both scans are exciting opportunities to see your baby and ensure they’re growing as expected.
Routine Blood Tests
Blood tests are offered throughout pregnancy to screen for conditions that may affect you or your baby:
- Down’s Syndrome, Edwards’ Syndrome, and Patau’s Syndrome Screening (10–14 weeks): This test is usually combined with the dating scan. It is designed to estimate your baby’s risk of these conditions, alongside certain factors like measurements.
- Anaemia Testing (at booking and around 28 weeks): Ensures your iron levels are sufficient for your pregnancy.
- Infectious Disease Screening: Checks for hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis.
Urine Tests: Regular Monitoring
Urine samples are taken at most antenatal appointments to check for protein (a sign of pre-eclampsia), glucose (indicating potential gestational diabetes), or infections.
Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT)
This test is offered between 24–28 weeks for those at risk of gestational diabetes. You will have two blood tests on either side of having a sugary glucose drink to measure how your body processes sugar.
Extra Screening for Baby’s Wellbeing
If any concerns arise, additional tests like non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and amniocentesis may be recommended to provide more information about your baby’s health. As you reach the third trimester, you might be recommended further ultrasounds known as growth scans based on your fundal height measurements that your midwife will take at each appointment.
The Importance of Preparation
Pregnancy tests and screenings not only ensure your baby’s wellbeing but also allow you to plan ahead. If you’re considering stem cell banking with Smart Cells, these appointments are ideal times to discuss this with your healthcare provider and prepare for collection at birth.
At Smart Cells, we’re here to support you every step of the way. These tests are part of a reassuring network of care to guide you through pregnancy with confidence and clarity. For more information on preparing for your pregnancy journey, visit our Pregnancy Knowledge Guide.
