Booking in Appointment

The first official step into your maternity care journey is your booking-in appointment — usually with a midwife, typically between 8–10 weeks of pregnancy.

It’s a milestone moment: exciting, sometimes a little overwhelming, and often filled with more questions than answers.

At Beyond the Bump, we know how it can feel — a bit like you’re just another box to tick in a system. So, let’s break it all down honestly, reassure you that you’re in control, and help you feel confident in what’s to come.

First Things First: Everything is Optional

We’ll say this louder for the people at the back — everything offered within the maternity care system is optional.

That includes scans, tests, screening, and even your blood pressure being taken. You are not required to say yes to anything just because it's standard or routine. Your informed choice is what matters — and you can absolutely ask for more information, time to think, or simply say no.

This is your pregnancy, your body, and your baby.

Want to know more about informed choice? Then watch our 'Taking Control of Your Birth' video which goes through an easy to use 5 step process to help you feel empowered during all of your appointments.

So, What Happens at the Booking-In Appointment?

This is a longer appointment (usually 60–90 minutes), where your midwife will begin creating your care plan and recording your medical history. It’s usually in person, though some areas still do part of it over the phone.

Here's what to expect:

🩺 Medical & Family History

They’ll ask about any past pregnancies, health conditions, family history, and your lifestyle — all to help shape your personalised care.

🧪 Blood & Urine Tests (If You Choose Them)

You’ll be offered:

• Blood tests for things like your blood group, iron levels, and infections (e.g. HIV, hepatitis)

• A urine test to check for signs of infection or protein

📊 Risk Scoring: Let’s Talk About That…

After gathering all your info, a risk level will be calculated — often by a computer algorithm based on things like age, BMI, past health, and family history.

⚠️ But here’s the thing no one really tells you: this is a starting point, not a diagnosis. It doesn’t define what kind of care you must have, and you’re allowed to challenge it — especially if something doesn’t sit right for you.

We hear time and time again that people feel like just a number at this stage. So here’s your reminder: You’re allowed to ask why, to challenge the suggestion, and to advocate for what’s best for you and your baby.

❤️ Mental Health Check-In

Your midwife will ask about your emotional wellbeing — including your current mood and any history of anxiety or depression. There’s no judgement here, and you deserve care that supports all of you — not just your physical health.

🗂️ Maternity Notes & Next Steps

You’ll receive access to your maternity notes, which might be digital depending on your area. You’ll also:

• Be booked for your 12-week scan

• Discuss screening options (all optional)

• Be given lots of NHS advice about diet, exercise, supplements, and care options

It's often a whirlwind — and many people leave feeling like they still have so many unanswered questions.

That’s where we come in...

Want Calm, Clear, Ongoing Support? You’ll Love The Birth & Baby Academy

The NHS is amazing — but time is short, and info can be confusing or rushed. That’s why we created The Birth & Baby Academy — a complete online antenatal and newborn prep course that helps you cut through the noise, understand your options, and plan for a positive birth your way.

👉 Join The Birth & Baby Academy

We cover everything from birth planning and pain relief options to postnatal recovery and baby care — with no judgement and no assumptions.

Free Video: Taking Control of Your Birth

If you’re feeling like just another number in the system already, we’ve got you.

Our free video, Taking Control of Your Birth, helps you start your pregnancy journey feeling empowered, not overwhelmed.

🎥 Watch it here for free

The booking appointment is a big deal — and it’s okay to feel a bit uncertain. But remember: you’re not just a tick-box. You’re a person, a parent-to-be, and you absolutely deserve respectful, informed, and individualised care.

Ask questions. Say no. Say yes. Ask for alternatives. Take up space.

You’ve got this — and we’ve got your back.