What to Expect at Your First Doctor Visit in Pregnancy
Your first GP or midwife appointment in pregnancy can feel daunting, especially if it is your first pregnancy. Knowing what to expect beforehand helps you feel calmer, more prepared, and able to ask the questions that matter to you.
Why the First Visit Matters
In the UK, most people see their GP briefly to confirm the pregnancy and then are referred to a midwife for a longer booking appointment, usually offered between 8 and 10 weeks. Some GP surgeries refer you directly without a face-to-face GP appointment — you may be asked to self-refer to your local midwifery team instead. Check with your GP surgery how their process works.
The booking appointment with your midwife is the main first visit, and it is thorough. It typically lasts around an hour.
What Happens at the Booking Appointment
Your midwife will work through several areas during this appointment:
Due date and history
- Your midwife will ask for the date of the first day of your last menstrual period to estimate your due date. This may be refined at your dating scan.
- They will ask about your current pregnancy, any previous pregnancies, and your general medical history.
Blood pressure and weight
- Your blood pressure and weight will be recorded as a baseline. These will be compared at every future appointment.
Urine test
- A urine sample checks for protein (which can indicate a kidney problem or, later, pre-eclampsia) and glucose.
Blood tests
- Blood is taken to check your blood type and rhesus factor, screen for anaemia, and test for infections including HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B. These are routine and offered to everyone.
Mental health check-in
- Your midwife will ask about your mood, anxiety levels, and any history of mental health difficulties. This is not judgemental — it is so that appropriate support can be put in place early if you need it.
Lifestyle discussion
- Smoking, alcohol, diet, and any recreational drug use will be discussed. You will also be asked about your occupation if it involves physical work or chemical exposure.
Information and screening choices
- You will be offered information about antenatal screening, including the combined screening test for conditions such as Down's syndrome (offered around 11–13 weeks alongside the dating scan). You do not have to make an immediate decision; take any leaflets home and discuss with your partner if relevant.
What to Bring
- The date of your last menstrual period
- A list of any medications or supplements you are taking
- Your medical history (long-term conditions, previous surgery, allergies)
- Any family history of genetic conditions if you know it
- A list of questions you want to ask
Coping With Appointment Anxiety
It is completely normal to feel nervous at your first pregnancy appointment, particularly if:
- You have experienced a previous miscarriage or pregnancy loss
- You have had difficult experiences with medical settings before
- You are going alone
Some things that can help: write your questions down beforehand so you do not forget them in the moment; bring a partner, friend, or family member if you are allowed and would find it comforting; and remember that your midwife or GP has these conversations every day and is there to support you, not to judge you.
If you feel your concerns are not being listened to, you are always entitled to ask for clarification or a follow-up appointment.
When to Contact Your GP Before Your Appointment
If you have not yet had your booking appointment but experience any of the following, contact your GP or the early pregnancy unit (EPU) without waiting:
- Heavy bleeding
- Severe one-sided pain (could indicate an ectopic pregnancy)
- High temperature (38°C or above)
- Severe vomiting preventing you from keeping any fluids down
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately for severe one-sided pain with collapse or dizziness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at the first GP appointment when pregnant?
Your GP will confirm the pregnancy, estimate your due date from your last menstrual period, review your medications, and make a referral to midwifery services. In many areas, GPs refer you directly to the midwifery team without a formal examination. The main first appointment is the midwife booking appointment at around 8–10 weeks, which is longer and covers your full medical history, blood tests, blood pressure, urine, and mental wellbeing.
What should I bring to my first pregnancy appointment?
Bring the date of your last period, a list of any medications and supplements you are taking, your personal and family medical history, and a written list of questions. If you have a previous scan or medical records relating to a past pregnancy, bringing those can also be helpful. You do not need to bring anything specific for the GP referral — the detailed preparation matters most for the booking appointment.
Is it normal to feel anxious at the first appointment?
Yes, very. Many people find their first pregnancy appointment emotional, whether from excitement, nerves, or a mix of the two. If you have experienced pregnancy loss before, appointments can feel particularly loaded. Tell your midwife how you are feeling — they can offer extra reassurance, move through things at a pace that suits you, and connect you with additional support if needed.
Speak to your midwife or GP for advice tailored to your individual circumstances.
Further reading:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
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