PREGNANCY PLANNING
A healthy pregnancy, step by step.
General guidance based on the World Health Organization’s antenatal care recommendations. It does not replace advice from your doctor or midwife.
Before pregnancy
Have a check-up with a health worker. Start folic acid (400 µg a day), ideally before you conceive, and review your medicines and vaccinations.
First trimester · weeks 1–12
Book your first antenatal visit by week 12. Expect blood tests, a blood pressure check and confirmation of your due date. Keep taking folic acid.
Second trimester · weeks 13–27
Visits around weeks 20 and 26. WHO recommends one ultrasound scan before week 24. Ask about iron supplements and a healthy diet.
Third trimester · weeks 28–40
Visits around weeks 30, 34, 36, 38 and 40. Choose where you will give birth, plan transport and prepare your bag.
After birth
Postnatal checks for mother and baby within 24 hours, then on day 3, between days 7 and 14, and at 6 weeks.
Get care immediately if you have:
- Vaginal bleeding
- Convulsions or fits
- Severe headache with blurred vision
- Fever, or being too weak to get out of bed
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fast or difficult breathing
- Baby moving less than usual
Getting ready for birth
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