Pregnancy and Bırth

Pregnancy and childbirth is a special process in which the expectant mother experiences both physical and emotional changes. For a healthy pregnancy period, regular doctor check-ups, balanced nutrition, appropriate exercise, adequate sleep, and timely completion of necessary screening tests are important.

Pregnancy follow-up is carried out not only to monitor the baby’s growth, but also to detect early any conditions that may develop in the expectant mother, such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, anemia, infections, and the risk of preterm birth. ACOG states that regular prenatal care throughout pregnancy is important for the health of both mother and baby (1).

Pregnancy Process Week by Week

Pregnancy is a process of approximately 40 weeks and is calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period. Each week, the baby’s development and the changes experienced by the mother may differ. Below, the pregnancy process is summarized in general terms.

Weeks 1-12: First Trimester

In the first weeks, fertilization, implantation of the embryo in the uterus, and the development of basic organs begin. During this period, symptoms such as missed period, nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and frequent urination may occur. At the first examination, whether the gestational sac is located inside the uterus is evaluated by ultrasound.

• A pregnancy test and beta-hCG evaluation may be performed.
• The gestational week and location are checked with ultrasound.
• Blood type, complete blood count, urine test, and infection screenings may be requested.
• A combined screening test may be planned between weeks 11 and 14.

Weeks 13-27: Second Trimester

The second trimester is usually a more comfortable period for most expectant mothers. Nausea may decrease, energy may increase, and the abdomen may start to become more noticeable. Baby movements are generally felt during this period.

• If deemed necessary, triple or quadruple screening tests may be performed between weeks 16 and 20.
• A detailed ultrasound evaluation may be planned between weeks 20 and 24.
• Gestational diabetes screening may be performed between weeks 24 and 28.
• Weight, blood pressure, and urine monitoring of the expectant mother continue.

Weeks 28-40: Third Trimester

In the final trimester, the baby grows rapidly, and back pain, sleep difficulties, contractions, frequent urination, and fatigue may become more noticeable in the expectant mother. During this period, the birth plan, method of delivery, and hospital preparations are discussed.

• The baby’s development and amniotic fluid are monitored by ultrasound.
• When necessary, the baby’s heartbeat and contractions are evaluated with NST.
• After the 36th week, check-ups may become more frequent.
• The expectant mother is informed about the signs of labor.

What Should Be Considered During Pregnancy?

The aim during pregnancy is to protect the health of both the mother and the baby. Eating a balanced diet, drinking enough fluids, sleeping regularly, and not missing the check-ups recommended by the doctor are important. The CDC recommends that people planning pregnancy take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily and have a pre-pregnancy health evaluation (2).

• Regular doctor check-ups should not be neglected.
• Smoking, alcohol, and medications not approved by a doctor should be avoided.
• Raw meat, undercooked eggs, and unpasteurized products should be avoided.
• Daily water consumption should be taken into consideration.
• If approved by the doctor, walking, swimming, or light exercise may be done.
• In case of severe pain, bleeding, or water breaking, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

How to Prepare for Childbirth?

Preparation for childbirth is both a physical and psychological process. It is important for the expectant mother to discuss the signs of labor, when to go to the hospital, and delivery options with her doctor.

Breathing exercises, relaxation practices, light exercise, and obtaining accurate information about childbirth may help reduce fear of birth. The hospital bag, hospital choice, and postpartum support plan can also be prepared in the final weeks.

Tests Performed During Pregnancy

Tests performed during pregnancy are planned to evaluate the health of the mother and baby. The NHS states that blood tests, urine tests, ultrasound, and some screening tests may be offered to expectant mothers during pregnancy (3).

• First Examination Tests: Blood type, Rh status, complete blood count, urine test, and infection screenings may be performed.
• Combined Screening Test: It is generally performed between weeks 11 and 14.
• Detailed Ultrasound: It is usually performed between weeks 20 and 24 to evaluate the baby’s organ development.
• Gestational Diabetes Screening: It is generally performed between weeks 24 and 28.
• NST: In the final weeks, when deemed necessary, the baby’s heartbeat and uterine contractions are monitored.

Which Symptoms During Pregnancy Require Medical Attention?

Some symptoms during pregnancy may require urgent evaluation. In the following cases, a doctor should be consulted without delay:

• Vaginal bleeding,
• Severe abdominal or groin pain,
• Water breaking,
• Noticeable decrease in baby movements,
• High fever,
• Severe headache, visual disturbance, or widespread swelling,
• Regular and painful contractions,
• Burning during urination or heavy discharge.

Pregnancy and Birth Follow-Up Prices 2026

Pregnancy and birth follow-up prices may vary depending on the frequency of examinations, ultrasound and laboratory tests to be performed, the risk status of the pregnancy, the method of delivery, and hospital conditions.

The most accurate information about current pregnancy and birth follow-up prices for 2026 can be provided after a personal evaluation following the examination.

References

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Prenatal Care. (https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/prenatal-care)
2. CDC. Planning for Pregnancy. (https://www.cdc.gov/pregnancy/about/index.html)
3. NHS. Screening tests in pregnancy. (https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/your-pregnancy-care/screening-tests/)