First-Trimester Prenatal Checkups: What Tests Do Expecting Parents Need to Know?

Updated: 2025-09-06 · Reading time: ~5 mins · Prenatal care guide

The first trimester (0–12 weeks) is a crucial stage for your baby’s development, and also the time when moms-to-be go through their first comprehensive prenatal checkups. Many new parents ask: What tests are included in early pregnancy checkups? Here’s a breakdown of the common items you should expect, so you can feel more prepared.

1) Basic physical examination

• Height, weight, blood pressure: To assess general health and detect high blood pressure or abnormal weight.
• BMI: Helps monitor nutrition and weight management during pregnancy.

x 2) Blood tests

• Complete blood count: Screens for anemia or infection.
• Blood type and Rh factor: Identifies risk of hemolytic disease.
• Blood sugar, liver and kidney function: Screens for diabetes, liver disease, or kidney issues.
• Hepatitis B, syphilis, HIV: Important for early detection and management of infections.

3) Urine test

• Checks protein, sugar, and blood in urine, helping detect urinary tract infection, gestational diabetes, or early preeclampsia.

4) Ultrasound scan

• Confirm intrauterine pregnancy: Rules out ectopic pregnancy.
• Check number of embryos: Single or multiple pregnancy.
• Fetal heartbeat and growth: Confirms healthy development.
• Gestational age & due date estimation: Based on fetal measurements.

5) Chromosome screening (optional)

• Down syndrome screening (11–13 weeks): Nuchal translucency (NT) scan combined with blood test to assess chromosomal abnormalities risk.

‍ Additional doctor assessments may include

• Recommendation for folic acid, iron, or vitamin D supplementation
• Review of medical history and family genetic risks
• Lifestyle advice (diet, exercise, sleep routines)

Extended Reading

• What to Eat in Early Pregnancy? Nutrition Guide & Foods to Avoid
• 7 Early Signs of Pregnancy Every New Mom Should Know
• Early Pregnancy Discomforts & Relief Tips
• Safe Exercises for the Second Trimester: Boost Strength & Support Natural Birth

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This article is for general information only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Specific prenatal tests should be guided by your obstetrician according to individual needs. If you experience urgent or severe symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately.

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