Antenatal care

Pregnancy is a time of change, both physically and emotionally. Regular antenatal care helps you understand these changes and ensure that you and your baby remain well. It also gives you space to ask questions and feel confident about the months ahead.

At Affidea, our antenatal service offers continuous care throughout pregnancy to support your NHS care. We focus on tracking your baby’s development, spotting any concerns early and supporting your health and wellbeing as your pregnancy progresses.

Overview: what is antenatal care?

Antenatal care is the care you receive during pregnancy. It involves regular appointments to check your health and your baby’s development, alongside guidance to help you prepare for what’s ahead.

Depending on your stage of pregnancy, your care may include:

• Health checks, such as blood pressure and blood tests

• Ultrasound scans to monitor your baby’s growth

• Screening tests to review your health and identify potential concerns

Your care is adapted as your pregnancy progresses, so it reflects what is most relevant at that time.

As well as monitoring physical health, antenatal care provides the opportunity to talk through any concerns or uncertainties. This may include discussing symptoms, preparing for birth or understanding what to expect in the coming weeks.

At Affidea, our antenatal care is designed to provide continuity and reassurance, keeping you updated on your baby’s development and guiding you through each stage of pregnancy.

What to expect during your antenatal appointments

Each appointment is tailored to you and the stage of your pregnancy. Some visits focus on routine checks, while others may involve more detailed assessments or discussions.

During your appointments, you may have your blood pressure, urine or blood tested to monitor your health. You may also undergo ultrasound scans to track your baby’s growth, development and position.

There is also time to talk through how you are feeling physically and emotionally. This can include discussing symptoms, lifestyle factors and any questions you may have about pregnancy, birth or early parenthood.

As your pregnancy progresses, appointments may become more frequent to ensure that both you and your baby are closely monitored.

Antenatal services and support we offer

Our antenatal service provides a range of support throughout your pregnancy.

Routine pregnancy checks

Regular assessment of your health and your baby’s development at each stage.

Ultrasound scans

Ultrasound appointments are available throughout pregnancy to give you timely information and reassurance about your baby’s progress. These may include early reassurance, viability, dating, gender and growth checks, depending on your stage of pregnancy and individual needs.

Screening tests

A range of screening tests to give you more information about your health and your baby’s development.

Pregnancy guidance

Advice on lifestyle, nutrition and preparing for birth and early parenthood.

Ongoing pregnancy care

Continued support at every stage of pregnancy, helping you feel informed and reassured.

When to access antenatal care

Antenatal care usually begins in early pregnancy and continues until your baby is born. Regular appointments help track your progress and give you reassurance along the way.

It may be helpful to arrange antenatal care if you:

• Have recently found out you are pregnant

• Would like ongoing monitoring throughout pregnancy

• Have questions about symptoms or changes in your body

• Would like guidance on preparing for birth

• Have been advised to have additional monitoring

Early care can help identify any potential concerns and ensure the right plans are in place as your pregnancy develops.

If you’re unsure when to begin antenatal care, your GP can advise you. You can also contact our team to help you plan your care and discuss any questions.