Preparing for your first antenatal visit

Your first antenatal (ANC) visit is one of the most important appointments of your pregnancy. It sets the foundation for the care you and your baby will receive — so a little preparation goes a long way.

When should you book?

Ideally as soon as you have a positive pregnancy test, and no later than 12 weeks. Booking early lets us date the pregnancy accurately, start folic acid and iron, and pick up conditions like anaemia, high blood pressure, diabetes or infections while there is still plenty of time to manage them well. If you are already past 12 weeks, please still come in — late booking is always better than no booking.

What to bring on your first ANC visit

Your ID document for file registration purposes. If using medical aid, bring accurate information from the main member (member number, ID, contact information and address). Wear comfortable clothes that will be easy to take off and back on. Any previous scans, blood results or medication you're currently taking. The date of the first day of your last menstrual period, if you know it. A list of questions — and a partner or support person if you'd like one.

What we'll do at the visit

Take a full history: previous pregnancies, deliveries, surgeries, chronic conditions and family history. A full head-to-toe physical examination. Draw blood to screen for infections and confirm your blood type and rhesus status. Measure blood pressure, weight, height and baseline observations, and test your urine. Confirm dating and viability with an ultrasound where indicated. Issue you a maternity record and pregnancy supplements. Discuss your birth preferences, lifestyle and any concerns.

The blood tests explained

Blood group and rhesus factor — if you are rhesus negative you may need anti-D during pregnancy. Full blood count — screens for anaemia, which is common and easily treated. HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B — all treatable, and treating them protects your baby. Rubella immunity and, where indicated, thyroid function or glucose screening. Everything is confidential, discussed with you beforehand, and results are explained at your follow-up.

Your visit schedule from here

Roughly every 4 weeks until 28 weeks. Every 2 weeks from 28 to 36 weeks. Weekly from 36 weeks until delivery. High-risk pregnancies — twins, high blood pressure, diabetes, previous complications — are seen more often and may be co-managed with an obstetrician.

Questions to ask

Come with a written list — pregnancy brain is real. Common questions include foods to avoid, safe exercise, travel, sex during pregnancy, safe medication for headaches or heartburn, work and maternity leave, and when to call the clinic urgently. No question is too small.

When to call us immediately

Vaginal bleeding or fluid leaking. Severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or swelling of the face and hands. Severe abdominal pain, or regular painful contractions before 37 weeks. A noticeable reduction in your baby's movements after 24 weeks. Fever, burning on urination, or persistent vomiting. When in doubt, phone or WhatsApp us — we would much rather check and reassure you.