Pregnancy Awareness Week (observed 3–7 February) is a reminder that early care can make a lasting difference to both maternal and infant health. One of the most important steps in a healthy pregnancy journey is the first antenatal visit. Medical experts advise that this visit should take place as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, ideally between 6 and 8 weeks of gestation.
Yet many women delay their first check-up, often waiting until the second trimester. Pregnancy Awareness Week highlights why this early window matters and how timely care can improve pregnancy outcomes.
Why Early Antenatal Care Matters
The first trimester is when the baby’s vital organs begin to form and when the mother’s body adapts to pregnancy. Many health conditions, such as anaemia, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, and infections, develop silently and can only be detected through medical tests.
An early antenatal visit allows healthcare providers to:
- Confirm that the pregnancy is progressing normally
- Estimate the expected date of delivery
- Identify nutritional deficiencies
- Detect medical conditions that could affect pregnancy
- Classify high-risk pregnancies early
Early detection and timely management significantly reduce complications later in pregnancy.
What Happens During the First Visit?
At the first antenatal appointment, a doctor or midwife typically conducts:
- A complete medical and pregnancy history
- Blood and urine tests
- Blood pressure and weight measurement
- An ultrasound scan
- Counselling on diet, supplements, physical activity, and rest
This visit also helps establish a routine schedule for follow-up visits.
Who Should Seek Care Immediately?
Some women should consult a doctor immediately after a positive pregnancy test, especially if they experience:
- Vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain
- A previous miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy
- Chronic conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disorders
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Pregnancy achieved through fertility treatment
Prompt care ensures early diagnosis of potential complications.
Overcoming Delays in Seeking Care
Pregnancy Awareness Week also addresses why women delay their first antenatal visit. Common reasons include lack of symptoms, family advice, fear of medical procedures, or lack of access to healthcare facilities. Awareness campaigns play a vital role in encouraging early registration and regular check-ups.
Creating Healthy Habits from Day One.
The first antenatal visit sets the tone for healthy pregnancy behaviours, such as:
- Taking prescribed supplements
- Eating a balanced diet
- Staying physically active with medical advice
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and unsafe medications
- Managing stress and getting adequate rest
These habits benefit both mother and baby throughout pregnancy.
The right time for the first antenatal visit is as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. Early care is not just a recommendation — it is a critical step in protecting two lives.
Healthy pregnancies begin with early check-ups.