Pregnancy is an exciting journey filled with milestones – and medical check-ups. Knowing what to expect at each stage can help you feel more prepared and confident.
Here’s a trimester-by-trimester timeline of important tests, scans and doctors’ visits to guide you through every step of your pregnancy.
4–7 Weeks:
Your first ultrasound typically takes place during this time to confirm the pregnancy and check for foetal heart activity. You’ll also likely undergo:
- A pap smear
- Gonorrhoea and chlamydia screening
- Urinalysis
12 Weeks:
This is when your doctor may recommend a nuchal translucency scan and blood work. Tests often include:
- Blood type
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Creatinine (kidney function)
- Fasting glucose (to screen for diabetes)
- HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B/C screening
- Rubella immunity check
- Genetic screening (for risks such as Down syndrome, neural tube defects, and trisomy 18)
16 Weeks:
Depending on your initial genetic screening, you may be offered a second screening at this stage.
20 Weeks:
An anatomy scan is done to check your baby’s development. This is also when gender can often be identified.
24–28 Weeks:
This period includes a one-hour glucose tolerance test to screen for gestational diabetes. Your doctor will also recheck your CBC to monitor for anaemia.
27–36 Weeks:
The Tdap vaccine (to protect against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) is recommended during this window.
28–34 Weeks:
A growth scan may be done to assess your baby’s size, position, amniotic fluid levels and overall development.
35–36 Weeks:
You’ll be tested for Group B Streptococcus, and your HIV and syphilis screenings may be repeated.
37–40 Weeks:
Cervical exams may begin to monitor for dilation and signs that labour is approaching.
40+ Weeks:
If you pass your due date, your doctor may order a biophysical profile (BPP) sonogram to ensure your baby is moving well and that amniotic fluid levels are healthy.
Helpful Support From GetSavvi Health
GetSavvi Health offers comprehensive maternity cover designed to give you peace of mind during this life-changing experience.
Our Maternity Benefits include gynaecologists’ visits, ultrasound scans and private hospital cover up to R20 000 for natural birth and R30 000 for caesarean birth.
We're here to support a healthy, happy pregnancy from your first scan to delivery.
Request a call back and one of our friendly consultants will be in touch shortly.