Booking Appointment: What Happens Complete Guide
Your booking appointment is the first proper, in-depth meeting with your midwife, usually arranged once you've self-referred or been referred by your GP, ideally by around 10 weeks of pregnancy. It's longer and more detailed than any appointment that follows, because it's when your entire maternity record is set up.
What actually happens
- A detailed history. Your midwife will ask about your general health, any previous pregnancies, your family's medical history, and your partner's family history where relevant, since some conditions can be inherited.
- Physical checks. This includes your height and weight (used to calculate your BMI), blood pressure, and sometimes a urine sample to check for protein or infection.
- Blood tests. A set of standard blood tests are taken, usually covering your blood group and rhesus (Rh) factor, full blood count (to check for anaemia), and screening for infections such as HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis. Screening for conditions like sickle cell and thalassaemia may also be offered depending on your background and local policy.
- Due date confirmation. Your midwife will calculate an estimated due date based on your last period, which is usually later confirmed or adjusted at your dating scan.
- Lifestyle discussion. Expect honest, non-judgemental questions about smoking, alcohol, recreational drug use, diet, and any medications you take, so your care can be tailored appropriately.
- Information and choices. You'll be given information about antenatal screening tests (such as the combined test), where you might like to give birth, and general pregnancy health advice, including folic acid and vitamin D.
How to prepare
- Bring a list of any regular medications or supplements you're taking.
- Note down key dates: the first day of your last period, and roughly when you think you conceived if you're unsure of your cycle.
- Write down any questions in advance — it's easy to forget them once you're in the room.
- Bring your partner along if you'd like extra support or a second set of ears.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the booking appointment?
Booking appointments typically last between 45 minutes and an hour, sometimes longer, because they cover your full medical history, several blood tests, physical checks, and detailed discussions about your care options. It's by far the longest appointment in routine antenatal care — most later appointments take 15–20 minutes.
What blood tests happen at the booking appointment?
Standard blood tests check your blood group and rhesus factor, screen for anaemia, and test for infections including HIV, hepatitis B, and syphilis. Depending on your ethnic background and family history, you may also be offered screening for inherited blood conditions such as sickle cell disease and thalassaemia.
What should I bring to my booking appointment?
Bring any current medications or supplements, details of your last menstrual period, your GP referral letter if you have one, and a list of questions or concerns. If you have notes or records from a previous pregnancy, these can also be useful for your midwife to see.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Related articles: