Pregnancy check-ups
Pregancy Check-ups
During your pregnancy there are various measurement and control moments to monitor the growth of your baby, but also to see how you are doing physically and mentally. On this page we have listed all appointments and pregnancy checks for you. Read about all pregnancy checks and what you can expect at our midwifery practice in Geldrop and Mierlo below or check this website of the government of the Netherlands for more information: www.pns.nl.
In summary: the first interview is an intake which is a longer appointment. The follow-up pregnancy check-ups take about 15 minutes, depending on the type of appointment. In the beginning these appointments are every 4 weeks. The frequency of the checks increases when getting closer to the due date, to eventually 1 or 2 appointments each week. In addition, we plan extra time around 30-32 weeks to discuss the delivery.
1. The intake
The intake can be scheduled at the same time as the early ultrasound. If you wish to come earlier than 7-8 weeks because, for example, you have many questions, it is also possible to schedule this earlier.
During the intake we discuss your current health, medical history, any previous pregnancy(s), lifestyle and we would like to know whether there are hereditary diseases which run in the family. We also explain who we are and what can be expected of us as midwives. We also answer questions and give advice on, for example, nutrition.
If you have been pregnant before and this information is not known to us, please bring this information with you during the intake interview. If you no longer have the data ready, we can request it for you from the previous practitioner with your permission. Check for more information www.pns.nl.
2. Blood test
During the intake interview or during the term ultrasound, we will also give you a form for a series of blood tests, which is important at the start of the pregnancy.
The results of the blood will be discussed during the 15-16 week check-up. We will contact you sooner if the results are concerning.
What will be checked in the blood sample?
- Blood group
- Rhesus D factor
- Rhesus C factor
- Irregular antibodies
- Hepatitis B
- HIV
- Syfilis
- HB/MCV
- Glucose
- Other if indicators show necessary
3. Prenatal screening
It is possible to check for (chromosomal) deviations during the pregnancies, also known as prenatal screening. If desired, we can discuss the possible tests. Check for more information: www.pns.nl.
4. Term ultrasound at 10-11 weeks
Around 10-11 weeks we will plan the ultrasound to determine the due date. After the term echo, we can provide you with a pregnancy declaration which we will, with you permission, send to your general practitioner so they are aware of the pregnancy.
For more information about the term ultrasound, take a look at ultrasounds.
5. Follow-up pregnancy check-ups
5. Follow-up pregnancy check-ups
We offer two types of prenatal care: individual (one-to-one) appointments and Centering Pregnancy. During your intake appointment, we will discuss your preferences and decide together which option suits you best.
Individual Appointments (One-to-One Care)
After your dating scan, you will attend regular follow-up appointments. In general, the schedule is as follows:
- From the first appointment until 24 weeks: every 4 weeks (15, 19, and 23 weeks)
- From 24 to approximately 30 weeks: every 3 weeks (27 and 30 weeks)
- From 30 to 36 weeks: every 2 weeks (32, 34, and 36 weeks)
- From 36 weeks onwards: every week (37, 38, 39, 40, and 41 weeks)
During these appointments, we discuss how you are feeling and provide time to answer questions, address concerns, and discuss any discomforts you may be experiencing. We will also provide information on topics such as the whooping cough (pertussis) vaccination and monitoring your baby’s movements.
In addition, we:
- Measure your blood pressure
- Record your weight
- Check the growth of your uterus by feeling your abdomen
- Listen to your baby’s heartbeat
A follow-up appointment typically lasts around 15 minutes.
Of course, we assess each pregnancy individually to determine whether the standard schedule is sufficient or whether more frequent appointments are recommended or necessary.
Centering Pregnancy
Centering Pregnancy is a model of prenatal care that combines medical check-ups with comprehensive education and support. Sessions take place in groups of up to 12 pregnant women who are at a similar stage of pregnancy.
During each session, routine checks such as blood pressure measurements and listening to the baby’s heartbeat are performed. There is also plenty of opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and discuss topics related to pregnancy, childbirth, and parenthood.
Partners are welcome to attend the first 30 minutes of every session to be present during the medical check-ups. In addition, there are two dedicated partner sessions during which partners can participate in the entire meeting. These sessions focus specifically on (future) fatherhood and the partner’s role during pregnancy, labour, birth, and the postpartum period.
This approach provides more time, personal attention, and support than traditional prenatal appointments. It helps expectant parents prepare more thoroughly for childbirth and the period afterwards, encourages active participation in their own care, and promotes confidence and support throughout pregnancy.
Research has also shown that this model of care can contribute to improved outcomes for both mother and baby.
6. Growth ultrasound
At about 28 weeks pregnancy we will schedule a growth ultrasound to measure the baby, only if we find a reason/ indication to do so.
For more information about growth ultrasounds, take a look at ultrasounds.
7. 32 weeks - discuss birth plan
At about 24 weeks of pregnancy, if desired, you will receive a birth plan which you can make customise to fit your needs. At about 32 weeks we will schedule extra time to discuss this plan and explain what can be expected during labour, what the calling instructions are and we will discuss and note your wishes. If desired, we can show you the process of labour by using a book with drawings.
You will also receive information on the heel stick and hearing screening.
8. 34-35 weeks position ultrasound
At about 34-35 weeks, we will perform another ultrasound to determine how the baby is positioned.
For more information about the position ultrasound, take a look at ultrasounds.
9. 40 weeks, discuss going overdue
At about 40 weeks we will schedule some extra time to discuss the possibilities of being overdue. We will discuss the possibilities and make a plan together.
More information about the pregnancy check-ups
More information about the pregnancy check-ups
Do you have any more questions about the pregnancy check-ups and measurement moments? Or would you like to receive more information about prenatal screening? Get in touch with us for more information or schedule an appointment for our consultation hour; we are always here to help.