Your pregnancy, step by step
First scan 8 weeks
This is the moment you see your baby for the first time! Is its heart beating, what is the baby’s size and how many babies are there? All of these questions will be answered by this early scan. During this meeting we’d like to take the time to get to know you. Please do ask all the questions you have. We will tell you what to expect from us and how to reach us. We will also give you advice on food and lifestyle. We will tell you exactly what you should and shouldn’t do.
Dating scan 10 weeks
In this scan we will determine the estimated due date. Your baby has grown and we will now measure its length. Also, we will discuss the different options for prenatal screening, which is not mandatory. We will give you all the information you need about the NIPT test, combined test and 20-week scan. This way, you can make an informed decision on whether or not to have the prenatal screening performed.
Screening 12 weeks
Did you choose to have the NIPT or combined test performed? These tests usually take place between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. We will tell you everything you need to know about these tests in a personal meeting.
13-week scan 13 weeks
At this stage you can choose to have a 13-week scan performed, which is similar to the 20-week scan. It allows us to check if there are any structural abnormalities. The scan is performed by one of our sonographers during a scan consultation. You can only have this scan performed when you are participating in scientific research (IMITAS study). At 10 and 12 weeks we have given you extensive information on this matter to help you choose whether or not to have this scan performed.
Hearing its heart beat 14 weeks
You will hear the heartbeat of your baby for the first time! It beats at least twice as fast as yours. The child is growing fast and all its organs are being formed. During every consult we perform a standard check to see how you and your child are doing. If you’d like to know more, please go to the information about check-ups.
Boy or girl? 16 weeks
Is it a girl or a boy? At this stage we will be able to determine the sex of your baby. In case you are very curious we recommend you to make an appointment for a fetal sex determination ultrasound. You can also wait for the scan at 20 weeks. Or wait to be surprised at the birth.
Stay active 18 weeks
Your baby is now about 20 centimetres long and weighs 200 grams. You will have some more energy at this stage of your pregnancy. So, the best you can do is: stay active and do some sport! Do you plan to take on antenatal classes? This is the moment to start orientating. Also, we can inform you about the courses that are near you.
20-week scan 20 weeks
It’s time for the 20-week scan. This is performed by one of our sonographers during a scan consultation. Sometimes, it is necessary that a gynaecologist performs the 20-week scan. In this case, you will have to make an appointment at the hospital. This scan is reimbursed by your health insurance, but is not mandatory. You can decide for yourself whether or not to perform this scan.
At this stage, many women start feeling their baby’s movements, while their partner will have to wait a bit longer.
Your belly grows 23 weeks
Your belly is growing and you will have to start wearing maternity clothes. Also, your baby will start being able to hear sounds, so you can talk, sing or play some music for your baby. Have you decided whether you would like to bottle feed or breastfeed your child? We’d be happy to give you some advice and tips.
Preparations 27 weeks
It still may seem far away perhaps, but you are approaching your delivery. Well begun is half done. Therefore, we’d like to know if you have any personal care requirements with regard to your delivery. By now, your baby is 34 centimetres long and weighs about 800 grams. At this stage we will be able to feel what your baby’s position is.
Iron test 30 weeks
Did you know your body produced an extra litre of blood in the past few weeks? This causes the iron levels in your blood to drop slightly. With a standard blood test, we will check whether your blood still has a sufficient level of iron. During the latest consult you’ve received some general information about the delivery. Now it is time to write down your needs, questions and ideas in Birthwishes.
Birthwishes 33 weeks
What will you need to help you relax during the delivery? Would you like to give birth at home or at a hospital? Do you prefer to give birth in bed, in a bathtub or on a birth stool? And what do you expect from us? We will discuss your needs and questions stated in Birthwishes. We will also tell you how to reach us as soon as labour has started.
Growth scan 36 weeks
By now, most babies are positioned with their heads facing down. Your baby could also already have dropped a bit into your pelvis. We will now perform a scan to ensure your baby is ready to move into position for birth. Make sure to have your suitcase for labour and birth ready this week!
Waiting calmly 38 weeks
Your baby is now ready to be born, but the question is: when? Usually, your baby feels very comfortable in your womb, even though it has little space to move. It is important to notice your baby’s movements regularly.
Final sprint 39 weeks
The last mile is the longest. Take good care of yourself, take enough rest and find some distraction. The end is near!
Due date! 40 weeks
Today is the due date! You must be so curious to meet your baby. Unfortunately, only 4% of the children is born on their due date. If your child will not be born in the coming week, we could sometimes help Mother Nature a little. Then, we will discuss the different options with you.
Giving a hand 41 weeks
At this point in your pregnancy a membrane sweep could be used to induce labour naturally. If your child will not be born in the coming week, we will make an appointment with the gynaecologist to trigger labour.
Regular check of you and your baby
During every visit we discuss how you feel and answer all your questions. We measure your blood pressure, examine your abdomen to monitor your baby’s growth and position and listen to its heart via the doptone. This check usually takes 15 minutes.
Sometimes it is necessary to check you and your baby more regularly. This depends on your pregnancy and its progress. Also, in some cases, the gynaecologist is consulted, extra ultrasound scans are performed or an extra blood test is carried out.