Early Pregnancy Check-up Process & Must-Do Items
Early Pregnancy Check-up Process & Must-Do ItemsFirst Trimester (0–12 Weeks)
Why early visits matter
The first trimester is a key window for fetal development and risk assessment. Early work-up helps you:
- Confirm intrauterine pregnancy and estimate GA/EDD
- Set up your maternity record and follow-up schedule
- Identify treatable risks (anaemia, thyroid, infections)
- Get tailored advice for early symptoms and nutrition
0–12 weeks timeline (quick roadmap)
| Week | What | Why | Fasting/prep |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4–6 | First visit: confirm pregnancy (blood/urine), history; TV ultrasound if needed | Confirm intrauterine location, exclude ectopic, estimate GA | As instructed; bring medical records, meds & allergies |
| 6–8 | Registration + baseline labs (FBC, blood group/Rh, TFTs, renal/hepatic, fasting glucose); urinalysis; fetal heart on US | Set baselines and risk profile | Often fasting bloods; small sips of water ok |
| 8–10 | Infection screens (HBsAg, syphilis, HIV; +/- rubella/toxo/hep B profile) | Identify transmissible risks and plan follow-up | Follow clinic protocol |
| 11–12+6 | NT ultrasound (± early anomaly screen); discuss NIPT/first-trimester screening | Chromosomal risk assessment; refine GA | No fasting; wear easy clothing; bring prior results |
Note: Items and timing vary by provider; some can be combined in one visit.
Essential vs optional tests
Essential (common)
- Ultrasound (incl. fetal heart) — confirm intrauterine pregnancy, exclude ectopic
- FBC & urinalysis — anaemia, infection, renal status
- Blood group & Rh — Rh negative needs anti-D planning
- Fasting glucose / glucose status — early metabolic screen
- Liver/renal, thyroid function — baseline endocrine/metabolic
- Infection screens — hepatitis B, syphilis, HIV
Optional / risk-based
- NT + early anomaly scan (11–14 wks)
- NIPT — maternal blood genetic screen
- TORCH — based on local epidemiology & risk
- Vitamin D/ferritin — nutritional status (selected)
Visit prep checklist (print-friendly)
-
ID/passport; insurance/medical card
- Past medical/surgical history, meds & allergy list
- Pre-conception/period records (ovulation/UPT if available)
- For fasting labs: ~8 hours no food; small sips of water ok
- Wear loose clothing; bring tissues and a water bottle
- Bring a question list (sample below)
Sample questions to ask
- My EDD and next visit? Any need for specialist referral?
- What is this clinic’s screening schedule (which are essential vs optional)?
- Should I do NIPT now? How does it complement NT?
- Are my current supplements (folate/iron/vit D/DHA) appropriate?
- Any risks (thyroid/glucose/anaemia) to recheck? How often?
- Who to call and where to go if I have bleeding, pain or fever?
Red-flag symptoms (seek care)
-
Vaginal bleeding (bright red/clots) ± progressive lower-abdominal pain
- Severe one-sided pain or shoulder tip pain (consider ectopic)
- Fever, chills, persistent vomiting with poor intake
- Concerning exposures or new jaundice/marked swelling
This article is educational and not medical advice; follow your clinician’s guidance or attend emergency care if worried.
FAQ
Is it normal to have many blood tests early on?
Yes. Registration often bundles baseline labs (FBC, blood group, infections, thyroid/metabolic). Later visits adjust frequency based on your risk.
Is ultrasound safe?
Standard obstetric ultrasound is considered safe when medically indicated. Keep to recommended frequency.
References
- International & local OB-GYN follow-up recommendations
- First-trimester screening (NT, NIPT) and baseline labs
- Provider-specific booking protocols (follow your clinic)
Disclaimer: Educational content only. Follow your provider’s instructions and local clinic protocols.
Aug 13,2025