When should booking appointment be?

[TeachingPuffin]

I am currently 9+1 (first pregnancy). I spoke to the GP on the phone as soon as I found out I was pregnant, but it was really early so I didn't get an appointment. I self referred to the midwife just before I was five weeks. Since then I've twice spoken to a GP to check out some symptoms/ discuss my anxiety (both on the phone). I've also called most weeks on the day the midwife is at the GP to see when I might expect to get an appointment. Last time I was told the midwife will be in touch when I'm 9-11 weeks, to then make an appointment for the booking in. This seems quite late to me, especially as I'll have to book time off work and also because it doesn't leave an awful lot of time for the 12 week scan to be done. My friend (due five days after me) has had her booking appointment date for a couple of weeks; she'll be just under 10 weeks when it happens - different town, same area. Part of me is also worried they'll decide I'm a bad mum because I didn't get seen by an HCP any earlier. Am I being impatient or should I push harder for an appointment date?

You're first appointment is usually between 8-10 weeks. I've had my booking appointment for a few days and I'll be 8 weeks when I have it, which is pretty early.

Sounds about right. My booking in is later this time, same time as my 12 week scan.

They don't do much at the booking in, it's just form filling and medical history.

It does seem a bit late but I'm not sure what's the norm. I'm 8 weeks today and I only heard from the midwife last week, with my booking appointment made for just under 2 weeks time.
However I had a miscarriage in December but had already referred myself and I heard from the midwife much earlier (around 5 weeks I think, though it was arranged a few weeks ahead). Maybe it is a particularly busy time at the moment? I think I would definitely chase if you've still not heard anything this week x

My booking appointment was at 9 weeks but I had the invitation at about 5 weeks.

It doesn't really matter when the booking appointment is. Any time between 8 and 12 weeks is normal. It's purely a history taking and no diagnostic procedures get undertaken.

As long as you have your first scan before 13 weeks 6 days, which you will, all is fine.

My booking is next week. I'll be 11 weeks. NHS website says scan can be up between 8 and 14 weeks.

I've been pregnant 7 times and had my booking in appointments between 8 and 14 weeks

It’s fine, you’ll get your appointment and the scan will be done in time, so try to stop worrying and enjoy your pregnancy. Good luck x

Update: spoke to a different receptionist today, who told me that I should have been called back around 8 weeks. She said to call tomorrow when the midwife is in. I'll do that, but I am getting a bit annoyed and impatient... Have half a feeling they've misplaced my form...

I was told this by my GP surgery as well - to phone back between 9-11 weeks. Luckily second pregnancy so knew better and that the midwives get quite booked up. See if you can get a direct number for the practice midwife and have a chat with them. They’re usually really helpful. If you’re in West Yorks there’s a central booking number and PM me if you’re still struggling.

Hi cycling, thanks! Nowhere near West Yorkshire (sadly). I called today and the midwife did call me back. I was in the car with a colleague who doesn't know I'm pregnant so I couldn't ask any questions. I have an appointment for Sunday morning at 9.30 though! Odd time, but I suppose midwives don't do 9-5 :) so glad I'm in the system now, she did say she hadn't received my referral (I knew it!). No idea if the appointment is booking only or also the scan, but it's exciting :)