Congratulations on your planned, or maybe surprise, pregnancy! Whether this is your first baby, or you are expanding your tribe, there are some things you need to do:
- Start by taking some folate which can be taken on its own or as part of a pregnancy multivitamin. Folate is needed for baby’s brain and spinal cord development and should be taken until 12 weeks.
- Make an appointment to see your GP.
When you see your doctor for a first visit (usually early in your first trimester) they will:
- Ask about your medical history, family history, allergies and any medications you take
- Ask about your reproductive history. Any previous pregnancies
- Ask about smoking, alcohol and other drug use
- Check your blood pressure and do a physical examination
Once that is all covered then your doctor will usually be able date your pregnancy with an ultrasound in the rooms.
You will also receive a form to get some blood tests done. The blood tests include checking your blood group, doing an STI screen, and doing your iron levels.
If you are due for a cervical screening test then this can also be done and is perfectly safe in pregnancy.
A flu vaccine is recommended too.
Your doctor should make you feel comfortable and confident about your pregnancy. Your questions should all be answered so please don’t feel scared of asking about anything.
You should leave your first GP appointment with a clear plan of what happens next and when your next appointment will be.
This article has been written by Dr Elizabeth Tompkins
