Early pregnancy

You should visit a doctor at your local GP clinic. They can advise you about your options, do early routine visits and order tests and ultrasounds. If you choose to have your baby at Barwon Health, your doctor will refer you to the Pregnancy Care Clinic at University Hospital Geelong.

Your GP may conduct a blood or urine pregnancy test, a urine test (to check for infection), blood group and iron levels tests, pap test, check your immunity to rubella (German measles), hepatitis (a disease of the liver), sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as syphilis and HIV, thalassaemia (an inherited disorder that affects the production of haemoglobin), Vitamin D levels and Down Syndrome and other genetic disorders.

Genetic tests: if you choose to have an early screening test (first trimester combined screen) for Down Syndrome or other chromosomal disorders, these tests are best done at 9-12 weeks of pregnancy.

Rh (D) factor and anti-D antibodies
Your blood type is checked in early pregnancy because some women have a blood type that is incompatible with the fetus. Most women are Rhesus D positive which does not cause any problems. If you are RhD negative and your baby it is RhD positive this can cause problems for future pregnancies.

Click here to download the Australian Red Cross Blood Service brochure for Rh (D) negative women.

For more information, see Tests and checks. 

What might my GP talk to me about?

Your GP might discuss with you any concerns you might have about your pregnancy or health, discuss and organise early tests and ultrasounds, discuss your diet and exercise, support you to quit smoking and discuss alcohol and drug issues if necessary. They will also review any medications you are taking are safe in pregnancy, including any natural or alternative medicines.

Things you might want to ask your GP

• When your baby is due.
• Information that may affect your pregnancy such as your family’s health.
• Whether you are likely to have a straightforward pregnancy or whether you have more complex pregnancy needs.
• Your family’s medical history, which might include factors such as diabetes, blood pressure issues, heart problems or a history of twins.
• Aside from medical issues, the doctor may also ask about your circumstances such as risks, your emotional health and about any previous pregnancies or miscarriages and how you are feeling about them. This is to make sure that all women are offered appropriate information and support.