An uncomplicated pregnancy remains the norm. But it is precisely regular follow-up that confirms this, and that catches early the situations needing attention. Here is the usual pathway, trimester by trimester.

First trimester: confirming and securing

The first consultation (before 12 weeks)

This is the longest. The doctor confirms the pregnancy, dates the due date, takes your medical, surgical and family history, and assesses risk factors. Folic acid is prescribed — ideally started before conception and continued to 12 weeks — to prevent neural tube defects.

The first set of blood tests

  • Blood group and rhesus status, with antibody screening.
  • Full blood count (screening for anaemia, which is common).
  • Serology: toxoplasmosis, rubella, syphilis, hepatitis B, HIV (offered).
  • Fasting glucose and urine analysis.

The first ultrasound (11 to 13 weeks + 6 days)

It dates the pregnancy accurately, checks the number of embryos and measures nuchal translucency, a key element in Down syndrome screening.

Second trimester: monitoring growth

Consultations become monthly. At each visit: weight, blood pressure, fundal height, fetal heart sounds and urine analysis looking for protein or sugar.

The second ultrasound (20 to 25 weeks)

This is the anomaly scan, the most detailed one. It examines fetal anatomy organ by organ, the position of the placenta and the volume of amniotic fluid.

Gestational diabetes screening (24 to 28 weeks)

An oral glucose tolerance test, performed routinely when risk factors are present: overweight, family history of diabetes, age over 35, previous large baby.

Third trimester: preparing for birth

The third ultrasound (30 to 35 weeks)

It estimates fetal weight, checks presentation (head down or breech) and re-assesses the placenta and amniotic fluid.

The eighth-month consultation

This sets the place and mode of delivery, with a mandatory anaesthetic consultation if an epidural is being considered. A vaginal swab for group B streptococcus is taken around 35–38 weeks.

The ninth month

Closer monitoring, cardiotocography, cervical assessment. Beyond term, monitoring becomes twice weekly.

Signs requiring immediate attention

  • Vaginal bleeding, of any volume.
  • Painful, regular contractions before 37 weeks.
  • Loss of clear fluid from the vagina.
  • A marked reduction or stop in the baby's movements.
  • Severe headache, blurred vision, ringing in the ears, pain under the right ribs — possible signs of pre-eclampsia.
  • Fever above 38 °C.
  • Sudden swelling of the face and hands.

What teleconsultation allows during pregnancy

Clinical examinations and scans require physical presence. Many other moments in the pathway, however, suit a remote format: interpreting test results, questions about diet or permitted medicines, nausea, sleep problems, birth preparation, psychological support. This reduces travel without taking anything away from the quality of care.

You can browse the available gynaecologists or book a follow-up consultation as needed.