Antenatal appointments
What to expect at antenatal appointments and why they're important.
On this page
Check ups during your pregnancy
Antenatal appointments are the regular check ups you have while you're pregnant that help keep you and your baby healthy.
Why you should go
Antenatal appointments are an important part of looking after you and your baby during pregnancy, and include:
- tracking your baby’s growth and development
- understanding changes in your body and how to manage them
- looking after your health and reducing risks
- preparing for labour and birth and looking after your newborn baby.
They also give you a chance to ask questions about anything you're unsure or worried about.
What to expect
Each appointment will be different, depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy and will include:
- checking your blood pressure
- feeling your belly to check your baby’s size and position
- listening to your baby’s heartbeat
- discussing your baby movements.
Read more about routine tests during pregnancy.
The Pregnancy, Birth and Baby website also has more information about checkups, screenings and scans.
Who you'll see
Who you see will depend on your preference, your pregnancy care plan and any medical or risk factors. It might also change for different appointments but will usually include a midwife and, or a doctor.
If you have a complex pregnancy, you might also see an obstetrician or other specialists. They'll monitor your health and your baby’s development.