Common Symptoms
- Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness)
- Extreme tiredness
- Breast tenderness and enlargement
- Frequent urination
- Food aversions or cravings
- Mood swings
- Mild cramping (as the uterus grows)
The Booking Appointment
| What Happens | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Full medical and family history | Identify risk factors needing extra care |
| Blood pressure and urine check | Baseline for later comparison |
| Blood tests (FBC, blood group, rhesus status, infections) | Screen for anaemia, blood group incompatibility, infections |
| Down's syndrome screening discussion | Combined test (11-14 weeks) or later alternatives |
| Weight and BMI | Baseline; guides risk assessment |
The Dating Scan (11-14 weeks)
This ultrasound confirms how many weeks pregnant you are, checks for multiple pregnancy (twins), and measures nuchal translucency (part of Down's syndrome screening if opted for).When to Seek Urgent AdviceHeavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fever, or severe unrelenting vomiting — always contact your midwife, maternity unit, or GP promptly. First trimester bleeding is common (affects 1 in 4 pregnancies) but should always be checked.
Folic Acid and Vitamin DContinue folic acid (400mcg, or 5mg if higher risk) until 12 weeks to reduce neural tube defect risk. Vitamin D (10mcg) is recommended throughout pregnancy. Avoid vitamin A supplements and liver (contains high vitamin A, which can harm the baby).
Is spotting normal in early pregnancy?
Light spotting affects up to 25% of pregnancies and is often not concerning, but always report any bleeding to your midwife for assessment, as it can occasionally indicate miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
When should I tell people I'm pregnant?
This is a personal choice — many wait until after the 12-week scan when miscarriage risk drops significantly, but there's no medical requirement to wait.
What foods should I avoid?
Unpasteurised soft cheese, pâté, raw or undercooked eggs/meat, liver, excess caffeine (<200mg/day), and alcohol (avoid completely) are the main foods to avoid throughout pregnancy.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.