First-trimester blood and urine tests: what each one is for
At the first visit you are usually offered tests such as blood group, blood count, urine and infection screening. Each one aims to protect you and you…
Pregnancy Guide
Simple, trustworthy articles for every stage of pregnancy.
Your first ultrasound: what you can see and when the heartbeat shows
An early ultrasound confirms that the pregnancy is in the womb, shows the heartbeat and helps confirm the gestational age. Here is what you may see, w…
NIPT, triple and quad screening: which test, when and what it means
NIPT, triple and quad tests are screening tests that estimate the chance of certain chromosomal conditions in your baby. Amniocentesis can give a defi…
NT scan and combined test: a result is a chance, not a diagnosis
The NT measurement and blood test done at weeks 11–14 are combined to estimate the chance of certain chromosomal conditions. This article calmly expla…
The detailed anomaly scan: looking at your baby's organs one by one
The detailed ultrasound at about weeks 18–24 checks the structure of your baby's brain, heart, kidneys and other organs, as well as the placenta and f…
The glucose tolerance test (OGTT): what to expect and how to prepare
The glucose tolerance test is a common check for gestational diabetes. Here is a calm walk-through of how it works, how to prepare and what the result…
GBS screening and late-pregnancy tests: what to expect near the end
In the last weeks of pregnancy your doctor may suggest a GBS swab and a few other tests. Here is what they are for, what a positive result means and h…
NST, biophysical profile and doppler: how your baby is monitored late in pregnancy
Late in pregnancy your doctor may want to look at your baby's wellbeing more closely. We explain what the NST, biophysical profile and doppler ultraso…
Braxton Hicks contractions: how do they differ from real labour?
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular tightenings as your womb practises for birth. This article shows how to tell them from real labour contractio…
Midwife, doula and birth team: who does what, and how to find support
At birth, it is not only a doctor who may be with you: midwives, nurses and, if you wish, a doula can be there too. Here is a calm overview of each ro…
Antenatal classes: what you learn and how they can help
An antenatal class is a place to find answers to your questions about birth. We explain what it covers, how it may help and how to choose a class that…
How to write a birth plan: put your wishes down and stay flexible
A birth plan is an organised way to share your preferences with your team. This article covers what it can include, how to keep it flexible and how to…