0-6 weeks

7-12 weeks

13-20 weeks

21-30 weeks

31-36 weeks

37-42 weeks

Click on an image above to see what happens in the weeks of pregnancy

7-12 weeks

During this period, the baby will develop rapidly, and the first ultrasound(s) will take place. You will also have your first appointment with the midwife. You may notice your belly starting to grow, and your pants might feel a bit tighter. Many women experience nausea in the first trimester. If your nausea is significantly affecting your daily life, do not hesitate to contact the midwife.

Register for maternity care (kraamzorg)
Check your health insurance coverage
First blood test (including NIPT when desired)
Schedule 13 week ultrasound
Schedule gender ultrasound when desired
Register for childcare if needed

First appointment with the midwife

The first appointment with the midwife (intake) is always a longer appointment than usual. We allocate an hour to get to know each other, discuss your medical history, talk about the care you need during pregnancy, and provide explanations about various tests available during pregnancy. During this appointment, we measure your blood pressure and provide a lab form for blood tests to determine your blood type, iron, and if needed sugar levels, among other values. There is ample time for questions and discussing your preferences so that we can tailor our midwifery guidance accordingly.

Ultrasounds

Between 10-12 weeks, most women will have the first ultrasound, known as the term ultrasound. During this ultrasound, the baby is measured from head to tail, and the estimated due date is determined based on this measurement. Some women have a medical indication to receive an earlier vaginal ultrasound around 7-8 weeks, known as the early ultrasound.

Prenatal tests

Various tests can be conducted during pregnancy to examine the unborn baby. These tests are optional. During the appointment with the midwife, these tests will be discussed. One of these tests is the NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test), which checks for Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome. The 13- and 20-week ultrasounds examine congenital abnormalities. These tests never provide 100% certainty. It is up to you as prospective parents to decide whether or not to undergo specific tests. Click here for more information about these tests.

Register for maternity care (kraamzorg)
Check your health insurance coverage (and adjust if necessary)
First blood test (including NIPT when desired)
Schedule 13 weeks ultrasound
Schedule gender ultrasound when desired
Register for childcare if needed