According to UK guidelines, pregnancy care is primarily provided by a midwife (provided there are no medical indications for doctor-led care). Under Polish standards, pregnancy is most often managed by a specialist gynaecologist.
For this reason, Polish gynaecologist in London is more frequently chosen by women who value the sense of safety that comes from comprehensive, specialist-led antenatal care.
What does pregnancy care look like in the UK?
In the UK, care for a pregnant woman is provided by a midwife, while a gynaecologist becomes involved in cases of complications, the need for additional tests, or when the woman (and/or the foetus) belongs to a risk group (e.g. maternal medical conditions, complications in previous pregnancies or deliveries, smoking during pregnancy, etc.).
In an uncomplicated pregnancy, five midwife appointments are scheduled for first-time mothers and four for women who have previously given birth. The first appointment mainly consists of a discussion, during which the woman is informed about nutrition and self-care during this special period. At the second visit, the midwife offers standard state-funded prenatal screening tests. At this stage, an anti-D immunoglobulin injection may also be administered (if indicated) to prevent Rh incompatibility. Iron levels are also checked and supplementation prescribed if necessary.
During pregnancy, two ultrasound scans are routinely performed: between 8–14 weeks and 18–21 weeks. Some women are offered additional scans depending on their health status, baby weight gain, and other factors.
At each appointment, midwife measures abdominal circumference to assess foetal size and heart rate, monitors mother’s weight and blood pressure, and performs a urine test for protein. Internal physical examinations are not routinely recommended and are therefore not performed unless indicated. As delivery approaches, birth planning begins, including discussions about induction methods and types of pain relief.
Expectant mother receives information on maintaining good health and proper nutrition during pregnancy, as well as infant care. Significant attention is also given to postnatal depression, its symptoms, prevention, and management.
Perinatal care standards in Poland
In Poland, an expectant mother can choose who will manage her pregnancy. Since 2017, this can be either a gynaecologist or a midwife, provided the pregnancy is uncomplicated. Polish gynaecologist in the UK applies antenatal care standards commonly used in Poland, which are outlined below.
In Poland, during the first trimester, a pregnant woman typically visits the doctor twice, and around ten times throughout the entire pregnancy. The first visit should take place before the end of the 10th week of pregnancy. During this appointment, the gynaecologist conducts a medical interview and a full gynaecological examination, checks blood pressure and body weight, examines the breasts, and orders baseline tests.
These include, in addition to a general urine test and full blood count, glucose levels, blood group, a test for sexually transmitted diseases (VDRL), and IgG and IgM antibodies for toxoplasmosis.
- With the woman’s consent, HIV antibodies are also tested. Additionally, during the first visit, the gynaecologist performs a cervical smear test and a vaginal cleanliness test.
- Women in high-risk groups are informed about the possibility of undergoing prenatal diagnostic tests.
- In the second trimester, expectant mother attends three medical appointments. In addition to routine tests, foetal heart function is assessed, and an ultrasound scan is performed to evaluate foetal anatomy. During this period, a screening GTT (glucose tolerance test) is also recommended to exclude gestational diabetes.
- In the third trimester, pregnant woman attends four appointments, during which testing for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is ordered to check for hepatitis B carrier status. Vaginal discharge is also assessed and cultures are taken; foetal movements and uterine contractions are monitored. Before delivery, woman attends at least two further appointments, during which CTG monitoring is performed to assess uterine activity. Additional ultrasound scans, Doppler flow assessments, and evaluation of amniotic fluid levels are also carried out.
- Throughout pregnancy, three mandatory ultrasound scans are performed: the first one between 11 and 14 weeks, the second one between 18 and 22 weeks, and the third one between 27 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. If the pregnancy lasts longer than 40 weeks, an additional ultrasound scan is performed. Similar standards are followed by Polish gynaecologists in the UK, for whom careful monitoring of pregnancy progression is a top priority.
Currently, antenatal education covers a wide range of topics related to newborn care, preparation for childbirth and the postnatal period, as well as breastfeeding. New standards also include mental health monitoring in pregnant women, to prevent postnatal depression.
Polish gynaecologist in the UK
During pregnancy, you expect professional medical care and a supportive approach. A good doctor should trustful, communicative, tactful, gentle, and accessible.
Polish gynaecologist in the UK offers pregnancy care in line with Polish standards, as well as conversation and psychological support, which are so important for women during pregnancy. The sense of security provided by a Polish-speaking gynaecologist in the UK, who understands their patients and the Polish antenatal care system, is invaluable.
The main role of a gynaecologist managing pregnancy is to monitor baby’s development and detect any abnormalities early through regular appointments and diagnostic tests. For mother, the most important reassurance is knowing that her baby is developing properly. For this reason, it is recommended to see a gynaecologist for the first time as early as the 8th week of pregnancy.
At the first visit, doctor will confirm the pregnancy and ask about medical history. Woman should be prepared to answer questions about the date of her last period, past illnesses, and even her current life situation. This allows the doctor to plan further care which will be the best for both the mother and her unborn child. In case of coexisting conditions, thyroid disorders, or diabetes, consultations with other specialists may also be required.
When choosing Polish gynaecologist in the UK, opt for a doctor who is readily available, without long waiting times or queues. Choose someone who can be contacted by phone and who is located close to where you live.
If you live in the capital, visit a Polish gynaecologist at the Polish clinic in London. This highly experienced specialist has gained experience in both Poland and England. As a result, they provide pregnancy care according to Polish standards, adapted to UK conditions and regulations. Patients at the Polish clinic can expect not only professional medical staff, but also a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
For pregnant women, the most important factors are safety and peace of mind, which come from frequent contact with a doctor and access to prenatal tests. That is why, for many expectant mothers in England, choosing Polish gynaecologist is often the best available option.
