Your first trimester begins before conception, if you can believe it - we count a pregnancy as 'starting’ based on the first day of your last period. This is simply for calculation of the Expected Due Date - of course no one is pregnant until conception has happened. This is why we ask for your last menstrual period date when we discuss your pregnancy.

The first trimester is a time of huge change in your life when you adapt to the news of the pregnancy. There are also a lot of hormonal changes that can sometimes cause exhaustion or nausea. You do not need a referral from your family doctor to see a midwife. Your midwife can order an ultrasound or blood tests for you even before our first appointment if you are wanting to get started on those or need them done for a specific reason. Ideally your first appointment will be between 6 and 8 weeks of pregnancy. It’s a chance for us to get acquainted, review the midwifery model, answer questions and begin reviewing your medical history. We review all tests recommended in the firs trimester and guide you through the first important decisions.

Common questions about First Trimester:

- Blood tests

- Dating Ultrasound

- Genetic Screening in BC

- Bleeding/Cramping

- Nausea