Pregnancy Follow-Up: Visits and Tests by Week

Pregnancy Follow-Up: Which Check-Ups and When?

Prof. Dr. İkbal Kaygusuz Last reviewed: 25 September 2026 2 min read

In short: Pregnancy follow-up consists of regular examinations and tests of the mother's and baby's health. The first visit is usually at 6-8 weeks. In healthy pregnancies, visits are monthly until 28 weeks, every two weeks from 28 to 36 weeks and weekly after 36 weeks. Blood pressure, weight, the baby's growth and heartbeat are checked at each visit.

First visit (weeks 6-10)

Ultrasound confirms that the pregnancy is in the uterus, detects the heartbeat and dates the pregnancy, from which the due date is set. A detailed history is taken and the following tests are requested:

Full blood count, blood group and Rh factor
Urinalysis
Hepatitis B, HIV, syphilis and rubella immunity if needed
Thyroid function and fasting glucose

First trimester (weeks 11-14)

Nuchal translucency measurement and combined screening assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, and an early anatomy scan can detect some structural problems. Cell-free DNA (NIPT) screening can be discussed from week 10.

Second trimester (weeks 15-27)

Triple or quadruple screening if needed (weeks 15-20)
Detailed anomaly scan (weeks 18-23)
Glucose tolerance test (weeks 24-28)
Repeat blood count and iron if needed

Third trimester (from week 28)

Rhesus assessment and anti-D injection for Rh-negative mothers (around week 28)
Assessment of growth, position, amniotic fluid and placenta
Group B streptococcus screening (weeks 35-37)
Fetal heart monitoring (NST) when needed
Discussion of the mode of birth and birth plan

At every visit

Blood pressure and weight are measured, urine may be tested for protein, the baby's heartbeat and growth are checked and your questions are discussed. Regular visits help detect pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and preterm labour early.

When not to wait

Seek care immediately for vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, severe abdominal pain, reduced movements, severe headache or visual disturbance. See the warning signs page in the patient guide.

Where procedures are performed
Births and surgeries are performed at Anlaşmalı Hastane. Examination, planning and follow-up take place at the clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many scans are needed in pregnancy?

In healthy pregnancies, the first-trimester scan, the anomaly scan and third-trimester growth assessments are the core scans. Frequency depends on the course of pregnancy; ultrasound is safe in pregnancy.

Which vaccines are given in pregnancy?

The flu vaccine and a whooping cough (Tdap) vaccine between weeks 27 and 36 are recommended. Tetanus is given according to the national schedule.