Being Pregnant – We’re Here to Support You Throughout Your Pregnancy

Congratulations—pregnancy is a special time, and we’re delighted to be with you every step of the way. From the initial confirmation through to just before the birth, we’ll support you with regular checkups. The birth itself will take place at a maternity clinic; we’ll prepare you for it and refer you there in good time. On this page, you’ll find an overview of what to expect: what’s coming up and when, what we’ll be focusing on, and where you can learn more about each topic.

Before You Begin

There are steps you can take even before pregnancy. The most important is folic acid: If possible, start taking a supplement (at least 0.4 mg per day) one month before you plan to conceive—this significantly reduces the risk of spina bifida in your child. It’s also a good idea to check your vaccination and immunity status (rubella, chickenpox) and, on a practical note, to take out supplemental insurance in good time, since this is usually no longer possible during pregnancy. For more details → “Before Pregnancy.”

You’re Pregnant

If your period is late, a pregnancy test using morning urine will confirm the pregnancy. Please contact us then: At your first appointment, we’ll use an ultrasound to check whether the pregnancy is properly located in the uterus—and rule out an ectopic pregnancy—and calculate your due date (→ “Due Date Calculation”). Especially if you’ve been trying to conceive for a long time or are experiencing pain, please come in right away.

Our Prenatal Care Schedule

For an uncomplicated pregnancy, we’ll see each other about seven times. At each checkup, we’ll monitor key vital signs—blood pressure, weight, urine, hemoglobin levels—and, starting in the second half of the pregnancy, the baby’s growth and heart sounds. In addition, we’ll perform specific tests at certain points:

Week (gestational week)

What’s on the agenda

Table follows. 

What We’re Monitoring – A Guide

There are separate pages for each topic:

• Prenatal tests—ultrasound, first-trimester screening, NIPT, and amniocentesis: what they can do, and your right to know or not to know (→ “Prenatal Tests”).
• Infections—which ones we test for and how you can protect yourself in everyday life (→ “Infections During Pregnancy”).
• Special Care – when something requires extra attention, such as gestational diabetes or high blood pressure (→ “Special Care”).
• Nutrition, Daily Life, and Vaccinations – what’s good for you and what you should avoid (→ “Nutrition & Indulgences,” → “Exercise & Daily Life,” → “Vaccinations”).

Childbirth: Preparation and Support

The birth itself takes place at a maternity hospital. We’ll discuss with you well in advance which birth location is right for you, prepare you for the birth, and refer you to the hospital of your choice. This way, you’ll be in the right hands for the big moment—and we’ll remain your trusted point of contact both before and after. Learn more → “Birth.”

After Birth

We’re here for you afterward, too: during the postpartum period, with breastfeeding, with postpartum recovery—and whenever you need emotional support. Learn more → “After Birth.”

Costs and Insurance

First, the good news: Maternity benefits—pregnancy checkups, including ultrasounds, and childbirth—are covered by basic insurance without a deductible or copayment. Supplemental insurance must be purchased before pregnancy.

When to Call Us

Many things that happen during pregnancy are harmless, and a little uncertainty is to be expected. However, please contact us right away—better to be safe than sorry—if you experience bleeding, severe or persistent abdominal pain, a fever, a sudden gush of fluid (water breaking), or if you feel the baby much less than usual during the second half of your pregnancy. When in doubt, we’d rather be there for you one more time.