Here’s what to expect in terms of antenatal appointments with your midwife and scans during this trimester:
16 week appointment
Your midwife or doctor will usually give you information about the ultrasound scan you’ll be offered at 18 to 21 weeks.
They’ll also help with any concerns or questions you have.
Your midwife or doctor should:
- review, discuss and record the results of any screening tests
- measure your blood pressure and test your urine for protein
- consider an iron supplement if you’re anaemic
18 to 21 weeks
You’ll be offered an ultrasound scan to check the physical development of your baby. This is also known as the 20-week scan.
Screening for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B will be offered again by a specialist midwife if you opted not to have it earlier in pregnancy.
These tests are recommended as they greatly reduce the risk of passing infection from you to your baby.
At around 20 weeks, you’ll be offered the whooping cough vaccine
25 weeks
You’ll have an appointment at 25 weeks if this is your first baby.
Your midwife or doctor will usually:
- use a tape measure to measure the size of your uterus
- measure your blood pressure and test your urine for protein
- talk about your baby’s movements. If you have any concerns or your baby is moving less than usual, you’ll be advised to contact maternity services straight away.
Find out more about what to expect during the 3rd trimester.
