4 Weeks Pregnant Checklist
Finding out you are 4 weeks pregnant is an exciting and slightly overwhelming moment. At this stage your baby is the size of a poppy seed, but there is plenty you can already do to lay the foundations for a healthy pregnancy. This 4 weeks pregnant checklist walks you through the most important first steps.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Book Your First Midwife Appointment
- Contact your GP surgery or local maternity service to self-refer for antenatal care.
- Your booking appointment usually happens between weeks 8 and 10, but the waiting list can be long, so book early.
- Have your NHS number and the first day of your last period ready when you call.
- Ask whether your area offers self-referral online through the local maternity unit.
Section 2: Start Prenatal Vitamins and Lifestyle Changes
- Begin taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily to support neural tube development.
- Consider a pregnancy multivitamin that includes vitamin D (10 micrograms is the UK recommendation).
- Stop smoking and avoid alcohol; both can affect early fetal development.
- Limit caffeine to under 200mg per day, roughly one mug of filter coffee.
- Check your diet for foods to avoid in pregnancy, such as unpasteurised cheese and raw fish.
Key Takeaways
Here are the most important points to remember from this guide:
- Book Your First Midwife Appointment: Contact your GP surgery or local maternity service to self-refer for antenatal care.
- Start Prenatal Vitamins and Lifestyle Changes: Begin taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily to support neural tube development.
- Can I take a pregnancy test at 4 weeks? Yes.
- Should I have told my employer by 4 weeks? No, you are not obliged to tell your employer yet.
Take each step at your own pace and reach out to your midwife whenever you need reassurance. Every pregnancy is unique, so trust your instincts and keep a note of anything that feels unusual.
FAQ
Can I take a pregnancy test at 4 weeks?
Yes. At 4 weeks pregnant your period is due or late, and a home test should detect hCG reliably. Use first morning urine for the most accurate result.
Should I have told my employer by 4 weeks?
No, you are not obliged to tell your employer yet. Many women wait until the first scan at around 12 weeks, but you can share earlier if you need risk adjustments at work.
Is cramping normal at 4 weeks?
Mild cramping similar to period pains is common as the embryo implants. Severe pain or heavy bleeding should be reported to your GP or early pregnancy unit immediately.
This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your midwife or GP for concerns about your pregnancy.
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