The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

Skip to main content

Pregnancy Follow-up

Regular prenatal examinations and tests for a healthy pregnancy ensure the well-being of mother and baby.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department. Book Appointment →

What is Pregnancy Follow-up?

Pregnancy follow-up (antenatal care) refers to an integrated process covering examinations, tests, and education lasting from the beginning of pregnancy to delivery, aimed at protecting the health of the mother and baby. In the first trimester, 11-14th week combined test and ultrasound; in the second trimester, anatomical scan and triple-quadruple test; and in the third trimester, fetal growth and malpresentation assessment are performed.

Routine blood tests include blood type and Rh factor, complete blood count, blood sugar (gestational diabetes screening at 24-28 weeks), urine culture, thyroid function, and infectious disease screening.

Regular follow-up enables timely detection and management of complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm delivery, and fetal growth restriction.

Symptoms

Normal pregnancy findings: nausea-vomiting (especially in the first trimester), fatigue, breast tenderness
Missed period and positive pregnancy test are the earliest signs of pregnancy
Fetal movements are expected to be felt in the second trimester (around 20-22 weeks)
Edema, frequent urination, and back pain are common in the third trimester
Concerning findings: painful contractions, vaginal bleeding, severe headache

Risk Factors

Advanced maternal age (35 years and over)
Chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease)
History of complications in previous pregnancy
Multiple pregnancy
Obesity (pre-pregnancy BMI >30)
Smoking, alcohol, or substance use

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • For the first appointment when the pregnancy test is positive
  • When vaginal bleeding or severe cramps occur
  • When fetal movements are thought to decrease or stop
  • When severe headache, vision changes, or sudden facial swelling occur
  • When labor pain and membrane rupture (water breaking) start after the 39th week

Treatment Methods

01
Folic acid (started pre-conception until the 12th week) and iron supplementation
02
Trimester-specific ultrasonography and serological tests
03
Gestational diabetes screening: OGTT at 24-28 weeks
04
Rh immunoglobulin prophylaxis as needed
05
Low-dose aspirin prophylaxis in preeclampsia risk
06
Childbirth preparation education and breastfeeding counseling

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Regular Gynecological Check-up

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Regular gynecological check-ups enable early diagnosis of many women's diseases and increase treatment success. It is recommended that every sexually active woman or woman over 21 see a gynecologist at least once a year.

Cervical Cancer

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Cervical cancer develops from uncontrolled growth of cells in the cervix and is among the most common women's cancers worldwide. Precancerous lesions can be recognized with regular Pap smear and HPV testing.

HPV and Vaccination

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

HPV is a common virus transmitted sexually that can lead to certain types of cancer. Vaccination provides over 90% protection against high-risk HPV strains.

Ovarian Cyst

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on the ovarian tissue. Most are asymptomatic and disappear spontaneously; however, large or complex cysts can cause pain and complications.

Endometriosis

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Endometriosis affects about 10% of women of reproductive age, causing cyclic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and infertility; combined medical and laparoscopic treatment improves quality of life.

Uterine Fibroids

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors developing from the uterine muscle layer. They affect 20-50% of women of reproductive age; most are asymptomatic, but can cause bleeding and pain.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

PCOS is the most common endocrine disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, characterized by androgen excess, ovulation disorder, and polycystic ovarian appearance.

Menopause

Kadın Hastalıkları ve Doğum

Menopause is the life stage defined by not having a period for 12 consecutive months and the natural cessation of ovarian function. The average age is 51, but it can vary between 45-55 years.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.