Most pregnant individuals meet with their midwife about 8–10 times during a normal pregnancy. However, the number of midwife visits offered during pregnancy may vary depending on the region and individual needs.
When do you go to the midwife for the first time?
The first visit usually takes place in pregnancy week 8–12. During this visit, the midwife will review your health, previous pregnancies, and provide information about the pregnancy, among other things.
In some regions, you are offered an early health consultation around weeks 6–8, followed by a more comprehensive registration visit around weeks 10–12.
How often do you visit the midwife during pregnancy?
The number of visits varies somewhat between regions, but many follow approximately this schedule:
- Weeks 8–12: Registration
- Week 16: Midwife visit (At this visit, the midwife often wants to meet the pregnant person alone for part of the visit to ask questions about health, well-being, and life situation.)
- Weeks 18–20: Routine ultrasound
- Weeks 20–25: Midwife visit
- Weeks 25–28: Midwife visit
- Weeks 31–32: Midwife visit
- Weeks 35–36: Midwife visit
- Weeks 37–38: Midwife visit
- Weeks 39–40: Midwife visit
- Week 41: Follow-up if needed
Towards the end of the pregnancy, the visits become more frequent.
What happens at a midwife visit?
At the visits, the midwife may, among other things:
- Measure blood pressure
- Perform tests
- Check the baby's growth
- Listen to the heartbeat
- Answer questions about pregnancy, childbirth, and the time afterwards
Do first-time mothers and those who have given birth before have the same number of visits?
Not always. If you have been pregnant before and the pregnancy is uncomplicated, you may sometimes be offered fewer visits than a first-time mother. The plan is adapted to your needs and the routines that apply in your region.
Frequently asked questions
Do the visits cost anything?
No, maternity care is free of charge in Sweden.
Can you get more visits?
Yes. If you need extra support or follow-up, you can have more visits with the midwife.
How many ultrasounds are performed during pregnancy?
In Sweden, all pregnant individuals are offered at least one routine ultrasound, usually in week 18–20. In some regions, an early ultrasound during the first trimester is also offered. Ultrasounds are usually not counted as regular midwife visits but take place separately.
Please note that routines may differ between different regions and clinics. Contact your midwife clinic if you have questions about what applies where you live. All maternity care is completely voluntary.