Midwives provide advice, care, and support for women and their babies during pregnancy, labour, and the early postnatal period. They help women make informed decisions about their care and services, and offer health education and parenting advice.

Role of Your Midwife

• Check your baby's health, growth, and position
• Assist with hospital bookings and routine tests
• Provide support and advice throughout your pregnancy
• Help prepare you for labour and birth
• Support you during labour and birth

First Visit Checklist

• Confirm pregnancy
• Calculate how many weeks pregnant you are and estimate your due date
• Offer ultrasound if dates are unclear
• Check blood pressure, height, and weight
• Review medical and family history
• Blood tests for blood group, anaemia, rubella, hepatitis B & C, syphilis, chlamydia, and HIV
• Urine test for infections

Subsequent Visits May Include

• Blood pressure checks
• Measuring your abdomen to monitor baby’s growth
• Urine tests for infection or high blood pressure indicators
• Checking baby’s heartbeat and movements
• Vaginal swab for Group B streptococcus (GBS)
• Anti-D immunoglobulin if your blood type is Rh-negative
• Assessing baby’s presentation and how far down the baby is in your pelvis

Questions You Should Ask During Visits

• When is my baby due?
• How often should I come for checkups?
• Will I have scans throughout the pregnancy? When?
• What other tests will I have?
• How can I manage morning sickness?
• Should I change my diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle?
• Is it too late to start folate or other supplements?
• Can I continue taking my current medications?
• Is alcohol safe during pregnancy?
• Are there any foods I should avoid?
• What do my test results mean? (Always ask this during every visit)