Pregnancy is one of the most important times to stay connected with a healthcare provider — not just at delivery, but throughout. Antenatal care (ANC) is the regular medical attention a mother receives during pregnancy, designed to catch problems early, track the baby's growth, and prepare both mother and family for a safe delivery. Here's what to expect as you move through each trimester at RKA Specialist Hospital's ANC & MCH Clinic.

First Trimester (Weeks 1–12)

Your first antenatal visit is usually the most thorough. It typically includes a full medical history, blood pressure check, weight and height measurement, and laboratory tests — blood group, haemoglobin level, HIV and hepatitis screening, and a urinalysis. If it's early enough, an obstetric ultrasound may be done to confirm the pregnancy and estimate the due date.

This is also the stage to discuss any existing health conditions, medications you're taking, and to start supplementation (such as folic acid and iron) if your clinician recommends it. Morning sickness, fatigue and breast tenderness are common in this trimester and are usually not a cause for concern on their own.

When to seek care sooner Heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or fainting in early pregnancy should never wait for a scheduled appointment — come in or call our emergency line immediately.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13–27)

Many mothers find this the most comfortable stage. Visits typically continue monthly, checking blood pressure, weight gain, fundal height (the size of the growing uterus), and the baby's heartbeat. An anomaly ultrasound scan is often done around 18–22 weeks to check the baby's development.

You may start to feel the baby move during this trimester — commonly called "quickening." Your clinician will talk you through what's normal, nutrition needs as the baby grows, and screening for gestational diabetes if relevant to your history.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–40+)

Visits become more frequent — typically every two weeks until 36 weeks, then weekly until delivery. These check the baby's position, growth, heart rate, and your own blood pressure and urine for signs of pre-eclampsia (a pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure). This is also when you and your clinician will discuss your birth plan, what to pack for delivery, and what signs mean labour has started.

Warning signs at any stage Reduced baby movement, severe headaches, blurred vision, swelling of the face or hands, or a sudden gush of fluid should be checked immediately, regardless of your next scheduled appointment.

Why Regular ANC Visits Matter

Each visit isn't just a formality — it's a chance to catch complications like anaemia, high blood pressure, or abnormal baby positioning early, when they're most manageable. Regular antenatal care is one of the most effective ways to reduce risks for both mother and baby.

Our ANC & MCH Clinic at RKA Specialist Hospital supports mothers through every stage of pregnancy and into early childhood, with on-site laboratory and ultrasound services so most checks can happen in a single visit.