Having regular antenatal care is important for your health and the health of your baby.

Waiting times in clinics can vary, and having to wait a long time for an appointment can be particularly difficult if you have young children with you. Planning ahead can make your visits easier, so here are some suggestions:

• Write a list of any questions you want to ask and take it with you. Make sure you get answers to your questions or the opportunity to discuss any worries.
• If your partner is free, they may be able to go with you and support you as you discuss any worries or find out what you want to know. This can make them feel more involved in the pregnancy.
• In some clinics, you can buy refreshments. If not, take a snack with you if you're likely to get hungry.

In some cases, the baby’s father may be asked to have a blood test for inherited conditions, such as sickle cell or thalassaemia. Find out more about screening for inherited conditions.

Your antenatal notes
At your booking appointment (your first antenatal appointment with the doctor, your maternity team will enter your details in a record book and will add to them at each visit. You will be asked to keep your maternity notes at home and to bring them along to all your antenatal appointments. Take your notes with you wherever you go in case you need medical attention while you're away from home. Always ask your maternity team to explain anything on your card that you don't understand.