Pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks from the first day of your last menstrual period and is divided into three stages of roughly three months each, called trimesters. Your baby's development and the changes in your body differ in each trimester, and check-ups and screening tests are planned accordingly. Regular prenatal care is the most important step for detecting possible risks early and having a healthy birth.
First Trimester (Weeks 0–13): A New Beginning
The first trimester is the most critical period, when the foundations of all your baby's organs are formed. The embryo's heartbeat can usually be seen on ultrasound from week 6. Due to hormonal changes, nausea, fatigue and tenderness are common in this period and usually ease by the second trimester.
- First visit: Confirmation of pregnancy, determination of gestational age and a general health assessment.
- Blood and urine tests: Blood type, complete blood count, thyroid function and infection screening.
- Folic acid: Recommended before conception and through the first 12 weeks for your baby's neural development.
- Weeks 11–14 screening: Chromosomal risk assessment with the double test and nuchal translucency (NT) measurement.
Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27): The Most Comfortable Stage
With nausea easing and energy returning, this is the most enjoyable part of pregnancy for many mothers. You will usually start feeling your baby's movements between weeks 18–22, and the baby's sex can also be determined in this period if you wish.
- Detailed (anomaly) ultrasound: All of the baby's organs and development are evaluated in detail at weeks 18–23.
- Screening tests: The quadruple test or advanced screening methods are planned when needed.
- Glucose screening (OGTT): Screening for gestational diabetes at weeks 24–28.
- Maternal health: Weight and blood pressure monitoring, and iron–vitamin supplementation.
Third Trimester (Weeks 28–40): Preparing for Birth
In the final trimester your baby gains weight rapidly and completes lung development. Check-ups become more frequent; weekly visits are usually recommended from week 36. The mode of delivery, place of birth and your birth plan are finalised together in this period.
- NST (fetal monitoring): The baby's heartbeat and overall well-being are evaluated.
- Baby's position: Whether the baby is head-down is checked with ultrasound.
- Birth plan: Vaginal birth or caesarean section is planned together according to the condition of mother and baby.
- Signs of labour: In case of regular contractions, water breaking or bleeding, contact the clinic without delay.
Why Regular Trimester Care Matters
Every pregnancy is unique. Regular follow-up allows early detection of conditions such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure (preeclampsia) and growth restriction, protecting the health of both mother and baby. You can book an appointment for a personalised care plan at every stage of your pregnancy journey.