Your First Antenatal Appointment: What to Expect in Lagos
Finding out that you are pregnant is an important moment, and starting antenatal care early can help you understand what to expect throughout your pregnancy.
If you are looking for antenatal care in Lagos, you may have questions about when to book your first appointment, what happens during the visit, which tests may be recommended and how often you will need to see your healthcare provider.
Antenatal care involves regular healthcare during pregnancy to monitor the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby and to identify any concerns that may require further attention.
When Should You Start Antenatal Care?
It is generally advisable to contact your healthcare provider once you know or suspect that you are pregnant.
Your first appointment gives your healthcare provider an opportunity to review your health history, confirm important details about the pregnancy and establish an appropriate care plan.
The timing and content of your first appointment can vary depending on your individual circumstances, including your medical history, symptoms and stage of pregnancy.
If you have existing medical conditions, previous pregnancy complications or other concerns, your healthcare provider may recommend earlier or additional monitoring.
What Happens During Your First Antenatal Appointment?
Your first antenatal appointment may involve several different aspects of care.
Your healthcare provider may ask about:
- Your medical history
- Previous pregnancies
- The first day of your last menstrual period
- Any medications or supplements you are taking
- Existing medical conditions
- Previous surgeries
- Allergies
- Family medical history
- Any symptoms or concerns you are experiencing
This information helps your healthcare team understand your individual circumstances and plan appropriate care.
At Arctic Gynae Centre, our Obstetrics services include antenatal care, pregnancy monitoring, childbirth and postnatal care.
What Tests May Be Done During Antenatal Care?
The tests recommended during pregnancy depend on your individual circumstances and stage of pregnancy.
Your healthcare provider may recommend blood tests, urine tests, ultrasound examinations and other investigations where appropriate.
Laboratory investigations can provide useful information about your health during pregnancy.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Laboratory Services to support diagnosis, monitoring and other aspects of patient care.
Your doctor will explain which tests are appropriate for you and what the results mean.
Why Are Ultrasound Scans Used During Pregnancy?
Ultrasound is commonly used during pregnancy to provide information about the developing pregnancy.
Depending on the stage of pregnancy and clinical circumstances, an ultrasound may be used to assess factors such as fetal development, pregnancy location and other aspects of the pregnancy.
In some situations, Doppler ultrasound may also be used to assess blood flow.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides Radiology services including ultrasonography and Doppler services.
The timing and number of ultrasound examinations you need should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your pregnancy and medical history.
How Often Should You Attend Antenatal Appointments?
The frequency of antenatal appointments can change as pregnancy progresses.
Your healthcare provider will recommend an appointment schedule based on factors such as:
- Your stage of pregnancy
- Your medical history
- Previous pregnancy history
- Your general health
- The health of the pregnancy
- Any risk factors or complications
Some pregnancies may require more frequent monitoring than others.
It is important to attend the appointments recommended by your healthcare provider and discuss any concerns between appointments.
What Is Checked During Antenatal Visits?
Antenatal visits may include different assessments depending on the stage of pregnancy.
Your healthcare provider may monitor your general health and assess aspects of the pregnancy as appropriate.
This may include monitoring:
- Blood pressure
- Weight
- Pregnancy symptoms
- Fetal growth and development
- Other relevant clinical measurements
- Results of recommended tests
Your healthcare provider may also discuss nutrition, lifestyle, medications, warning signs and preparation for childbirth.
What Questions Should You Ask at Your First Antenatal Appointment?
Your first appointment is a good opportunity to ask questions.
You may want to discuss:
- How far along am I in my pregnancy?
- What tests do I need?
- When should I have an ultrasound?
- Which medications or supplements are appropriate?
- What foods or activities should I avoid?
- How often should I attend antenatal appointments?
- What symptoms should prompt me to contact my doctor?
- What should I expect as the pregnancy progresses?
- Where will I receive care if I need urgent medical attention?
Do not hesitate to ask questions if you are unsure about anything relating to your pregnancy.
What Symptoms Should You Discuss With Your Doctor?
Pregnancy can involve many normal physical changes, but some symptoms may require medical assessment.
If you experience unusual or concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for advice.
Depending on the situation, symptoms requiring prompt assessment may include significant bleeding, severe abdominal or pelvic pain, severe headache, difficulty breathing, fainting or other sudden or concerning changes.
If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, seek urgent medical attention rather than waiting for a routine antenatal appointment.
Antenatal Care for High-Risk Pregnancies
Some pregnancies require closer monitoring because of the mother’s health, previous pregnancy history or circumstances affecting the pregnancy.
Examples may include certain medical conditions, previous pregnancy complications, multiple pregnancy or other factors identified by your healthcare provider.
Having a pregnancy considered higher risk does not necessarily mean that complications will occur. It means your healthcare team may recommend additional monitoring or specialist care.
Your obstetrician can explain what this means for your individual pregnancy.
Choosing an Antenatal Clinic in Lagos
If you are searching for antenatal care in Lagos, there are several factors worth considering when choosing a healthcare provider.
Qualified healthcare professionals
Look for a clinic with appropriately qualified doctors and healthcare professionals who can provide pregnancy and maternity care.
Comprehensive pregnancy services
Having access to antenatal care, diagnostic investigations and other relevant services can make pregnancy care more convenient.
Access to diagnostic services
Pregnancy may require laboratory investigations and ultrasound examinations at different stages. Access to these services can support continuity of care.
Clear communication
Your healthcare provider should explain your pregnancy care plan, answer your questions and tell you when you should seek additional medical attention.
Convenient location
Pregnancy involves multiple appointments, so choosing an accessible clinic can make regular antenatal care easier.
Arctic Gynae Centre is located at Atlantic Vista Estate, Olokonla, along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos, serving women and families across Lagos and surrounding areas.
Antenatal Care, Childbirth and Postnatal Care
Antenatal care is only one part of maternity care.
As your pregnancy progresses, your healthcare team can help you prepare for childbirth and provide appropriate care after delivery.
Arctic Gynae Centre’s Obstetrics service covers pregnancy and maternity care, including antenatal clinics, pregnancy monitoring, childbirth, labour support and postnatal care.
This allows women to discuss their pregnancy care and maternity needs with the medical team throughout different stages of the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Antenatal Care
When should I start antenatal care?
You should contact your healthcare provider once you know or suspect that you are pregnant. Your doctor can advise you on when your first appointment should take place based on your individual circumstances.
What happens during the first antenatal visit?
Your healthcare provider will typically review your medical and pregnancy history and may recommend examinations, laboratory tests or imaging depending on your circumstances.
How many antenatal appointments will I need?
There is no single schedule that applies to every pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will recommend an appointment schedule based on your stage of pregnancy, medical history and individual needs.
Do I need an ultrasound during pregnancy?
Ultrasound may be recommended at different stages of pregnancy depending on your clinical circumstances. Your healthcare provider will advise you on when an ultrasound is appropriate.
Can I change my antenatal clinic during pregnancy?
If you need to change healthcare providers, discuss the change with your current and new healthcare teams where possible so that relevant medical information can be transferred and your care can continue appropriately.
Start Your Antenatal Care in Lagos
Choosing the right healthcare provider can make your pregnancy journey easier to navigate.
Arctic Gynae Centre provides comprehensive Obstetrics and antenatal care for women in Lagos, supported by laboratory and diagnostic services.
If you are pregnant and looking for antenatal care in Lagos, you can book a consultation with Arctic Gynae Centre to discuss your pregnancy and healthcare needs.
You can also explore our full range of women’s healthcare services to learn more about the care available.
Arctic Gynae Centre
R5, Atlantic Vista Estate, Olokonla, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos
Phone: +234 913 215 9156
Email: info@arcticobgyn.com
