Ministry Of Health Urges Mothers To Book Early Antenatal Appointments

Expectant mothers are advised that it is important, for both the mother and baby, that they make appointments early in their pregnancies.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness recommends that women should start having regular appointments with their health care provider within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Ideally, the first visit should take place between six and eight weeks into the pregnancy or as soon as the second menstrual period is missed.

Early care allows for the detection of problems that may arise during pregnancy. During the first visit, the doctor or midwife will:

• Take a medical and family history
• Check blood pressure, weight, and height
• Perform tests on blood and urine to check for conditions that can affect the pregnancy
• Examine the mother to determine how far along she is in her pregnancy
• Provide information on how to stay healthy and ensure good support and care

If a woman knows or suspects that she is pregnant, she is encouraged to make an early appointment to visit her doctor or the nearest polyclinic.

Ministry of Health and Wellness

Author: Melissa Rollock

Published: July 08, 2026