The initial evaluation that determines the location, gestational age, and viability of the pregnancy after a missed period or a positive test.
Pregnancy and Childbirth About 30 minutes
Pregnancy Follow-up
Planned examinations, ultrasounds, and laboratory tests performed at regular intervals from the beginning of pregnancy until delivery.
About Pregnancy Follow-up
Pregnancy follow-up is the process of regularly evaluating the health of the expectant mother and the baby. During the first examination, the gestational age and the estimated due date are determined; in subsequent check-ups, the baby's growth, heartbeat, placenta, and amniotic fluid are monitored by ultrasound. Blood pressure, weight gain, anemia, and gestational diabetes are screened at the weeks recommended by guidelines. The frequency of check-ups is personalized according to the course of the pregnancy; visits every four weeks are common in the early months, and weekly visits are typical in the later weeks. The information provided here is general; your follow-up plan will be created specifically for you after your examination.
How Does Pregnancy Monitoring Begin?
Pregnancy monitoring starts at the moment the pregnancy diagnosis is made. About two weeks after diagnosis through blood and urine tests, the gestational sac becomes visible on ultrasound. In this initial assessment, it is checked whether the sac is implanted inside the uterus; this helps to rule out the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy that requires urgent attention.
About one to two weeks later, the baby's heartbeat can be detected by vaginal ultrasound. Then, blood and urine tests are performed to determine the mother's general condition; risks for diabetes, thyroid disorders, and blood incompatibility are evaluated.
How Often Are Check-ups Performed?
In singleton pregnancies, check-ups every two to three weeks during the first trimester are appropriate; afterward, monthly monitoring is done. In cases of multiple pregnancies, existing maternal diseases, or a history of recurrent miscarriages, check-ups are conducted more frequently.
The main factor determining the frequency of monitoring is the mother's risk factors and overall health status. If the mother is of advanced or very young age, excessively overweight or underweight, or has conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, anemia, or uterine abnormalities, the monitoring plan changes and check-ups become more frequent.
Weekly Monitoring During Pregnancy
- Between 10-14 weeks, nuchal translucency measurement and the double screening test are performed.
- Between 16-18 weeks, the triple screening test is requested; amniocentesis is planned if deemed necessary.
- Between 20-24 weeks, detailed (second-level) ultrasound is performed.
- Between 24-28 weeks, the glucose tolerance test is applied; if results are abnormal, dietary recommendations are implemented.
- In pregnancies with blood incompatibility, a preventive injection is given at 28 weeks.
- Between 28-36 weeks, ultrasound, weight, blood pressure, and infection checks continue.
- After the 36th week, the mode of delivery is determined; NST is done weekly, and after the 40th week, every two to three days.
- If labor does not start spontaneously after the 40th week, induction with medication in hospital conditions may be considered.
Tests and Measurements Applied During Monitoring
To monitor the health of the mother and baby throughout pregnancy and to assess the course of the process, the following examinations and procedures are utilized:
- Fetal DNA test from the mother's blood,
- Various blood and urine tests,
- Ultrasound growth measurements of the baby.
In addition, at every check-up, blood pressure, pulse, and other vital signs are regularly measured. The details of your monitoring plan are created during the first examination, considering your last menstrual period and medical history.
When Coming to Check-ups
Bringing your previous test results and any medications you are using to each check-up facilitates evaluation. If you notice bleeding, abdominal pain, severe headache, sudden swelling, fever, water breaking, or decreased fetal movements, you should seek medical attention without waiting for your next appointment. Writing down your questions about nutrition, activity, and medication use during pregnancy beforehand helps you make the most of your check-up time.
The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes and does not replace a doctor's examination. Please be sure to consult a doctor for your complaints.
How It Works
The Process
The steps below describe how things generally work at the clinic. Which tests are needed and how the plan is set varies from person to person.
-
Step 1
Initial consultation and assessment
We review your complaints, medical history and any previous tests together. The examination is planned after this conversation.
-
Step 2
Necessary tests
If an ultrasound, lab work or other examination is needed, we clearly explain which one and why.
-
Step 3
Personalized plan
Findings are interpreted together; options, expected duration and any alternatives are shared with you. The decision is made jointly.
-
Step 4
Follow-up
A check-up is scheduled to see how things are progressing. If you have questions in between, you can reach the clinic.
Pregnancy and Childbirth
Related services
Other services in the same area may also interest you.
A preparatory consultation that reviews the health status of couples planning to conceive before pregnancy.
Preparation sessions that explain the birth process step by step, including breathing and positioning exercises.
A painless and radiation-free examination that records the baby's heartbeat and uterine contractions in the final weeks.
Evaluation and treatment planning in cases of bleeding, pain, or pregnancy loss during early pregnancy.
A preferred method of delivery in suitable pregnancies, based on the spontaneous progression of labor.
Your Doctor
Op. Dr. Abdulkadir Güllüce
Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist
Op. Dr. Abdulkadir Güllüce has been practicing medicine since 2013 and has specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology since 2022. He bases his practice on current scientific guidelines in areas ranging from pregnancy follow-up to gynecological surgery, tailoring the treatment plan according to each patient's individual history. He sees his patients at his clinic in Yakuplu, Beylikdüzü, and makes a point of explaining every step of the process in clear, understandable language.
Book Pregnancy Follow-up
The service will already be selected when you book. After choosing a day and time, there's just a short confirmation step.
The information on this page is for general purposes; it does not replace an examination, diagnosis or treatment and does not promise any outcome. Whether it applies to you is assessed together with your history and examination findings. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever or fainting, go to the nearest healthcare facility without delay.