What to Expect at Your First Midwife Appointment
Expectant mothers must attend various antenatal appointments throughout their pregnancy.
A midwife, or occasionally an obstetrician, will check your and your baby’s health and will provide informative information, such as the importance of a healthy diet and details of antenatal screenings. Plus, they will answer any questions you have.
If you are expecting a baby, here is what you can expect at your first midwife appointment.
Where Will I Have My Appointments?
Your first appointment with a midwife or obstetrician may take place in a GP surgery, your home, a hospital, or a children’s centre, and it usually takes no longer than an hour.
If you are a first-time mother, it is likely you will need to attend more appointments compared to women who have had children.
What Tests Can I Expect?
A midwife will need to learn more about your health to avoid risks to you and your baby. For example, a midwife will:
- Measure your weight and height to identify your body mass index (BMI)
- Take your blood to identify if you have HIV, hepatitis B, or syphilis
- Review your blood pressure and test your urine to identify signs of pre-eclampsia
Your midwife will provide maternity notes in a folder or book at the end of your appointment. It is essential to take your notes with you to each appointment, as they will be used to record each appointment, your health, and any test results.
The notes are for you and your midwife to review, and they will include important phone numbers, such as your midwife’s contact details or the telephone number for your maternity unit.
What Questions Will a Midwife Ask?
During your first appointment, a midwife will ask various questions to ensure you and your baby are effectively cared for throughout your pregnancy.
For instance, a midwife could ask about:
- The baby’s father
- Any health issues within your family
- Past pregnancies or children
- Your mental or physical health
- Your career
- Your support system
- Smoking, alcohol, or drug usage
- Your home and its residents
The initial appointment will allow your midwife to learn more about your health history and background. Also, it is your opportunity to express any concerns regarding your pregnancy.
Don’t hesitate to talk to your midwife if you have been or are currently a victim of domestic violence or female genital mutilation (FGM).
It is important to note that you can express concerns at any point to your midwife, who will ensure you receive the help you need.
What Information Will I Receive?
Your midwife will provide much information regarding your pregnancy during your first appointment, such as health tips and classes.
For instance, they will commonly provide information on:
- The benefits of breastfeeding
- A healthy pregnancy diet
- The scans and tests you can receive during pregnancy
- Your baby’s development throughout pregnancy
- Antenatal classes
- Antenatal care
- Childbirth options
- Medical benefits you are entitled to (such as free prescriptions and dental care).
If you don’t understand a process or have a question, don’t hesitate to ask your midwife, who will be happy to provide all the information you need to feel relaxed and knowledgeable throughout your pregnancy.
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