General Practitioners

Seeing your GP during pregnancy

If you think you might be pregnant, your first step is to see a GP (general practitioner). GPs are doctors who know about many health conditions, including pregnancy.

At this first appointment, the GP will usually:

• arrange a blood test to confirm your pregnancy, work out your estimated due date and check your health
• ask you about any previous pregnancies and your medical history
• recommend extra tests or an early ultrasound, depending on your age, medical history and previous pregnancies
• talk with you about pregnancy care options
• refer you to the place where you want to give birth or the health professionals you want to care for you.

After your first appointment, you might not see your GP again until about 6 weeks after birth, unless you choose GP shared care or you live in a rural area.

If you choose shared care or live in certain rural areas, some or all of your regular pregnancy appointments might be with your GP. Your GP might also be at the birth.