First-time mum? Here’s what to expect at every prenatal appointment

Becoming a first-time mum is exciting and full of hope, nevertheless can also feel scary and overwhelming. Pregnancy might seem like a whole new world, but don’t worry we will explain it very easily. Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters and during each trimester you should go to prenatal care. Prenatal care provides regular checkups to support both mum and baby. Obstetricians and midwives guide families through each stage, and Doctify makes it easier to connect with trusted professionals.

Why Prenatal Care Matters

Prenatal care matters since routine checkups help spot and manage potential concerns early. This includes monitoring both mother’s health (blood pressure, weight, lab tests) and baby’s growth each trimester. As well, guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle to support healthy development.

What to Expect in the First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)

During the first trimester, the first visit to the obstetrician should be made. The obstetrician will discuss with both parents about their medical history, will program the first ultrasound to confirm the due date, and will send an initial blood work. The initial blood work includes: blood type, iron levels, infections, thyroid, and diabetes screening if needed. Also, the obstetrician will give early advice on nutrition (folic acid and avoiding certain foods). In every checkup the blood pressure and the weight will be measured.

What to Expect in the Second Trimester (Weeks 13–27)

In the second trimester, the obstetrician will monitorise the growth of the uterus and baby’s heartbeat, and will check blood pressure and urine (for protein and sugar). In addition, the obstetrician will give guidance on exercise, safe daily activities, and nutrition: the importance of consuming protein, iron, calcium, and having optimum hydration. 

Some other important exams that you should keep in mind are:

• The anatomy scan to check baby’s development is usually around 20 weeks. 
• The screening for gestational diabetes is around 24–28 weeks.

What to Expect in the Third Trimester (Weeks 28–40)

Throughout the third trimester, the appointments will start to be more frequent (every 2 weeks, then weekly near the due date). The importance of these continuous appointments is to do ongoing checks of blood pressure, swelling, and pre-eclampsia signs. Besides, in each checkup the obstetrician will measure the baby’s growth and position in the womb. The obstetrician will decide, depending on the case, if blood tests for anaemia and Group B strep screening are recommended. Lastly, the discussion about the birth plan, hospital bag, and pain relief options will be made.

If you decide to have your baby by natural birth, labor and delivery involve three stages: first stage – dilation, second stage – pushing out the baby, and third stage – delivery of the placenta. You’ll experience increasingly strong and frequent contractions, changes in your cervix, and potentially your water breaking, leading to a feeling of pressure and an urge to push. Support from medical staff, pain management options like an epidural, and the eventual birth of your baby are all part of the process.

Lifestyle & Nutrition Throughout Pregnancy

It’s fundamental to have a balanced diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. The key nutrients you should include for your baby to grow healthy and strong are folic acid, vitamin D, iron, and calcium. Remember staying active with safe exercises (e.g., walking, swimming, prenatal yoga). Don’t forget to avoid smoking, alcohol, and excess caffeine. And last but not least, mental health is crucial, manage stress and prioritise rest.

Questions to Ask at Your Appointments

• Is my baby’s growth on track?
• Which foods or supplements should I prioritise?
• What symptoms should I call about right away?
• How can I prepare for labour and delivery?
• Which are my delivery options, including pain relief, interventions like induction or C-sections, and who will be delivering my baby?

When to Contact Your Doctor Urgently

If you feel severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, sudden swelling, or reduced baby movements, contact your doctor imperatively. If you feel severe headaches, blurred vision, blind spots, pain in the upper abdomen (below the ribs), or sudden swelling of the face and hands, please contact your doctor fast. But don’t worry, most pregnancies progress smoothly and early prenatal care protects both mum and baby.

Conclusion

Prenatal appointments during each trimester provide reassurance, support, and tailored advice. Regular checkups, good nutrition, safe exercises, and adequate mental health help ensure the best possible start for both mum and baby. The majority of pregnancies progress steadily and prompt prenatal care protects both mum and baby. We invite you to book with an obstetrician through Doctify to feel supported throughout your pregnancy journey.

Feel free to consult an obstetrician through Doctify for personalised advice whenever you want, we will be happy to help you! Find the best obstetricians in the United Kingdom or search for the best specialists globally:

• Obstetricians in the United Arab Emirates
• Obstetricians in Germany
• Obstetricians in Austria
• Obstetricians in Ireland
• Obstetricians in Australia

Medically Reviewed
Last reviewed on 07/09/2025