Pregnancy tests are a series of check-ups, blood and urine tests, and ultrasound scans carried out from the start of pregnancy until birth to monitor your health and your baby's health. They usually include measuring blood pressure, testing urine, and determining blood group, an ultrasound scan between weeks 11 and 14 and another between weeks 18 and 21, and a gestational diabetes test when needed [1]. Your doctor will set the exact timing of each test based on your condition.
Once your pregnancy is confirmed, the most important practical step is booking your first antenatal appointment. This guide explains common pregnancy tests and their approximate timing. We relied on guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO), the UK's National Health Service (NHS), and the U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). The schedules mentioned are general reference models, and your doctor is the one who will set your personal schedule.
What Are Pregnancy Tests and Why Are They Done?
Prenatal tests provide information about the health of the fetus, and some of them also check your own health. They may rely on a sample of blood, urine, or fluid from the vagina, cervix, or rectum [3].
Their importance lies in the fact that some health problems can be treated before birth if they are detected early. Even if they cannot be treated, knowing about them early gives you time to understand the condition and prepare for life after birth [3].
Screening Tests and Diagnostic Tests
- Screening tests: These estimate the likelihood of a problem and do not diagnose it. An abnormal result does not necessarily mean there is a problem, but it means additional information is needed [3].
- Diagnostic tests: These determine whether a specific health problem exists in you or in the fetus [3].
Undergoing these tests is your decision, after you discuss their benefits and risks with your doctor [3]. WHO guidelines for antenatal care cover nutrition, assessment of the mother and fetus, preventive measures, and management of common physiological symptoms [2].
When Should I Start Follow-Up and How Many Visits Do I Need?
Start follow-up as soon as you learn you are pregnant, and do not wait for symptoms to appear. The NHS recommends informing maternity services of the pregnancy as early as possible so that early support can begin [1].
The WHO antenatal care model is based on 8 follow-up contacts during pregnancy. In the British model, a woman having her first pregnancy is offered at least 10 appointments, including two scans, and a woman who has previously given birth is offered at least 7 appointments, because she usually does not need the same number [1].
These numbers are reference figures and not a binding rule in Jordan. The Mother and Child Health Centers affiliated with the Ministry of Health are located in the Kingdom's governorates and provide pregnancy care, and you can ask about the nearest center to you. Your doctor may add visits if your pregnancy is high-risk, such as a twin pregnancy or the presence of a chronic disease.
Pregnancy Test Schedule from Week 1 to Birth
Doctors usually calculate gestational age from the date of your last menstrual period, and confirm it with a dating scan [1]. The following table is based on the British model and is an approximate example of what may happen at each stage.
| Week | Usually Done | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| From the moment pregnancy is confirmed | Booking the first follow-up appointment | Do not wait until week 8 to get in touch [1] |
| 8–12 | First visit (booking): questions about your health and history, blood pressure measurement, urine test, and blood group test | May take about an hour [1] |
| 11–14 | Ultrasound scan to determine the expected due date, assess growth and the number of fetuses, with the possibility of screening for chromosomal syndromes | Genetic screening is optional [1] |
| 16 | Discussion of previous test results, blood pressure measurement, and urine test | Information about the upcoming scan [1] |
| 18–21 | Ultrasound scan to check fetal growth (the 20-week scan) | Also called the anomaly scan [1] |
| 24–28 | Gestational diabetes test for those with a higher likelihood of developing it | The doctor decides who needs it [1] |
| 25 (first pregnancy) | Blood pressure, abdominal measurement, and urine test, and discussion of fetal movement and mental health | An additional appointment for first-time mothers [1] |
| 28 | Blood test to check general health, iron levels, and blood group, and a preventive injection if there is a risk of Rhesus disease | Information about birth and newborn screening [1] |
| 31 (first pregnancy) | Review of blood pressure and urine, abdominal measurement, and preparation for birth | Discussion of signs of labor onset [1] |
| 34 and 36 | The same routine tests; at 36, the doctor palpates the abdomen to determine the baby's position | Focus on preparation for birth [1] |
| 38, 40, and 41 | Monitoring of blood pressure, urine, growth, and the baby's position, and discussion of options if the pregnancy passes the due date | Options are discussed if the pregnancy continues beyond 40 or 41 weeks [1] |
Always keep your pregnancy booklet or medical file with you until birth. It contains your appointments and results, and allows any doctor treating you in an emergency to quickly review your condition [1].
What Blood and Urine Tests Are Done in Pregnancy?
At the First Visit
The doctor or midwife measures your blood pressure and tests your urine to detect high blood pressure, pre-eclampsia, and urinary tract infections. You will also be offered a blood test to determine your blood group [1].
MedlinePlus notes that the first visit looks for blood problems and signs of infection, as well as your immunity to rubella (German measles) and chickenpox [3]. Tests such as gestational diabetes screening, Down syndrome screening, and HIV screening are suggested for all pregnant women. Your doctor may suggest other tests based on your age, personal and family medical history, and the results of routine tests [3].
In Mid and Late Pregnancy
At week 28, a blood test is requested to check your general health, iron levels, and blood group. A preventive injection is offered if the fetus is at risk of Rhesus disease (haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn) [1]. The common name for the test of your general health and iron is the complete blood count (CBC), and it may be supplemented by an iron stores test at the doctor's discretion. For more, read about anemia in pregnancy, its tests and treatment.
MedlinePlus also mentions group B Streptococcus (Strep B) testing among the available tests [3]. Deciding whether you need it and when is up to your doctor.
At almost every visit, your blood pressure is measured and your urine is tested, and fetal movement and your mental health are discussed [1]. These simple tests detect problems such as high blood pressure early.
How Many Ultrasound Scans Do I Need During Pregnancy?
The British model recommends at least two routine scans in a first pregnancy [1]:
- Between 11 and 14 weeks: It determines the expected due date, checks growth, and reveals whether the pregnancy involves one or more fetuses [1]. If the pregnancy is multiple, the follow-up plan will change, and you can find details about multiple pregnancy.
- Between 18 and 21 weeks: It checks fetal growth and the development of its organs [1].
In 2022, the World Health Organization issued an update to its recommendations on ultrasound imaging before 24 weeks of pregnancy [2]. Your doctor may order additional scans if symptoms appear or if the pregnancy is high-risk. Abdominal ultrasonography is available through the directory, and your doctor should tell you which type of scan is appropriate for your stage of pregnancy.
Is the Gestational Diabetes Test Required for Every Pregnant Woman?
The guidelines differ slightly. The NHS offers the gestational diabetes test between weeks 24 and 28 to those with a higher likelihood of developing it [1]. Meanwhile, MedlinePlus states that gestational diabetes testing is among the tests suggested for all pregnant women [3].
Therefore, ask your doctor about the timing and type of test in your case. If you have risk factors, such as a family history of diabetes, mention them at your first visit. For details, see the gestational diabetes page and our article on gestational diabetes screening, diet, delivery, and follow-up.
Are Genetic Tests Mandatory in Pregnancy?
No, they are a personal choice. The week 11–14 scan offers screening for Down, Edwards, and Patau syndromes, and the pregnant woman may accept or decline it [1]. A high-probability screening result is not considered a diagnosis, and it may require a diagnostic test later [3].
MedlinePlus lists more precise tests, including cell-free DNA testing, amniocentesis, and chorionic villus sampling [3]. To understand when you might need them and what their results mean, read about prenatal genetic testing, and review the answer to the question Should I get all available prenatal genetic tests?.
When Should I See a Doctor, and When Should I Go to the Emergency Room?
You can contact maternity services at any time if you are worried about your health or your baby's health, and there is no need to wait for your next appointment [1].
See your doctor the same day if:
- You notice a decrease in fetal movement or a change in it.
- You have pain or burning when urinating, which may indicate a urinary tract infection.
- You have frequent headaches or sudden swelling of the face and hands, because blood pressure checks during pregnancy aim to detect high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia [1].
- Fluid leaks from the vagina or regular contractions occur before week 37; see signs of early labor.
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately if:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding occurs, especially in late pregnancy; read about placental abruption.
- Severe abdominal pain or pain on one side occurs with bleeding or dizziness early in pregnancy, which may be an ectopic pregnancy.
- You faint, have convulsions, have difficulty breathing, or have a severe headache with visual disturbance.
How Do I Choose a Doctor or Clinic for Pregnancy Tests in Jordan?
Search for obstetrics and gynecology doctors in Jordan, then narrow the results by your governorate, such as Amman or Irbid. You can also open the specialty page to browse the other governorates. Those who do not have a clinic nearby can ask about the nearest Mother and Child Health Center affiliated with the Ministry of Health.
What to Check in a Doctor's Profile
- Specialty (obstetrics and gynecology), qualifications, and stated experience.
- Clinic location and ease of access, suited to your frequent visits.
- Working hours and the communication or booking method available in the profile.
- Availability of ultrasound at the same place or at the facility to which the doctor refers.
Useful Questions at the First Visit
- What is my expected schedule of visits and tests in my case?
- Am I in the low-risk pregnancy category, or do I need additional follow-up?
- Where will the birth take place, and how do I contact you in an emergency at night?
- Do I need genetic tests or early diabetes screening?
Doctor profiles on ClinicsJo are for identification and search, and do not replace your personal assessment. The platform does not provide remote medical consultations or prescriptions.
After birth, testing continues for the child; to learn about it, see the article on newborn screening. Keeping to your pregnancy test appointments, and writing down your questions before each visit, is the best thing you can do for a safe pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions
When should I have my first test after confirming pregnancy?
Book your follow-up appointment as soon as you learn you are pregnant. In the British model, the detailed first visit takes place between weeks 8 and 12, and includes questions about your health, blood pressure measurement, a urine test, and a blood group test. Your doctor will determine the most suitable timing for your case, and may see you earlier if symptoms or risk factors are present.
How many follow-up visits does a pregnant woman need?
The WHO antenatal care model specifies 8 follow-up visits. In the British model, at least 10 appointments are offered for a first pregnancy and at least 7 for a woman who has previously given birth. These are reference figures, and your doctor may increase the number of visits if the pregnancy is multiple or high-risk.
What routine ultrasound scans are done during pregnancy?
The British model recommends two routine scans: the first between weeks 11 and 14 to determine the expected due date and the number of fetuses, and the second between weeks 18 and 21 to check fetal growth. Your doctor may order additional scans if symptoms appear or a risk factor is present, and they are the one who chooses the appropriate type of scan.
Does every pregnancy need a gestational diabetes test?
The guidelines differ: the NHS offers it between weeks 24 and 28 to those with a higher likelihood of developing the condition, while MedlinePlus states that it is suggested for all pregnant women. It is best to ask your doctor about its timing and type based on your family history and health condition.
Are genetic tests in pregnancy mandatory?
No, the decision is yours after the doctor explains the benefits and risks. Screening tests estimate probability and do not diagnose; a high-probability result does not necessarily mean there is a problem, but it may call for a diagnostic test. Discuss with your doctor what suits your age, personal and family medical history.
When should I go to the emergency room during pregnancy?
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department in case of heavy vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fainting, convulsions, difficulty breathing, or a severe headache with visual disturbance. If fetal movement decreases or you are worried about your health, contact your doctor without waiting for your next appointment.
Sources and references
- Your antenatal care and appointments — NHS (UK National Health Service). Accessed: 2026-10-26.
- WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience — World Health Organization. Accessed: 2026-10-26.
- Prenatal Testing | Gestational Diabetes — MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine. Accessed: 2026-10-26.
