Pregnancy Care Timeline: Key Milestones from First Trimester to Delivery

Pregnancy is a transformative journey spanning approximately 40 weeks, divided into three trimesters. Each stage of pregnancy brings exciting changes, important health checkups, and remarkable fetal growth.

At Nova Women’s Health, our compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way with personalized prenatal care, education, and support to help ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy experience.

First Trimester (Weeks 1–13)

Key Milestones

Confirmation of pregnancy: Usually through a home test or blood test.
Initial prenatal visit: Includes a full medical history review, physical exam, and due date estimation.
Ultrasound scan: Typically around 8 weeks to confirm fetal heartbeat and viability.
Prenatal screenings: Blood tests to check for anemia, blood type, infections, and genetic conditions.
Healthy lifestyle adjustments: Begin prenatal vitamins (especially folic acid), maintain a balanced diet, and avoid alcohol and smoking.

Baby’s Development

During this early stage, your baby grows from a fertilized egg into a developing fetus with forming organs, heartbeat, and tiny limb buds. By week 12, most major organs are in place, and the foundation for a healthy pregnancy is set.

Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27)

Key Milestones

Anatomy scan (around 20 weeks): A detailed ultrasound scan to check fetal growth and identify any abnormalities.
Gestational diabetes screening: Usually performed between weeks 24–28.
Feeling baby’s movements: Often begins between weeks 18–22—an exciting milestone for parents.
Gender reveal: If desired, the baby’s sex can often be determined during the anatomy scan.
Prenatal checkups: Continue every 4 weeks to monitor your blood pressure, weight, and baby’s heartbeat.

Baby’s Development

The baby’s facial features become distinct, fingerprints form, and hearing begins to develop. By the end of this trimester, your baby can recognize familiar voices and respond to external sounds.

Third Trimester (Weeks 28–40)

Key Milestones

Biweekly prenatal visits: Appointments become more frequent to monitor your and your baby’s health.
Group B strep test: Performed around week 36 to ensure safe delivery.
Birth plan discussions: Talk through your preferences for labor, delivery, and pain management.
Recognizing labor signs: Learn what contractions feel like and when to go to the hospital.
Hospital bag preparation: Pack essentials for you, your baby, and your support person.

Baby’s Development

Your baby continues to gain weight, develop fat stores, and mature their lungs. By 37 weeks, your baby is considered full-term and ready for delivery.

Delivery and Postpartum Care

Labor and Delivery

Labor may begin naturally or be induced, depending on your medical needs. Delivery may be vaginal or via cesarean section.

Postpartum Recovery

After birth, it’s important to monitor bleeding, emotional well-being, and breastfeeding. A postnatal checkup—usually around 6 weeks postpartum—helps ensure that your body is healing properly and that both you and your baby are thriving.

How Nova Women’s Health Supports Your Pregnancy Journey

At Nova Women’s Health, we provide comprehensive, compassionate care for women throughout every stage of pregnancy and beyond. Our goal is to help you feel supported, confident, and prepared to embrace motherhood.

Our Pregnancy Care Services Include:

Comprehensive prenatal checkups
Ultrasound and imaging for fetal monitoring
Birth plan discussions and childbirth education
Personalized care for mother and baby
Postnatal visits for recovery and support

Pregnancy can be both exciting and overwhelming—with countless questions and emotions. Our dedicated providers are here to help you feel informed, empowered, and cared for every step of the way.

Ready to begin your prenatal care journey?

Book your appointment online with Nova Women’s Health in Burlington today and experience exceptional, personalized care from our trusted OB-GYN team.