Antenatal Care in Kenya: Why 8 Visits Matter and What Happens at Each One
Kenya follows the WHO recommendation of at least eight antenatal contacts. Here's when to start ANC, the schedule week by week, the tests you'll have and how to plan your delivery in Nakuru.
- Written by
- Primegala Clinical Team
- Published
- Reading time
- 2 min read
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Short answer: Start antenatal care (ANC) before 12 weeks of pregnancy and plan for at least eight contacts with a health worker: one in the first trimester, two in the second and five in the third. Each visit checks you and your baby, and together they prepare you for a safe birth.
For years, many mothers in Kenya were told four antenatal visits were enough. In 2016 the World Health Organization raised the recommendation to eight, and Kenya adopted it, because more contacts mean problems like high blood pressure, anaemia and poor growth are caught in time.
The 8-contact schedule
| Contact | When | Main focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Up to 12 weeks | Confirm pregnancy and dates, first tests, start supplements |
| 2 | 20 weeks | Baby's growth, blood pressure, counselling |
| 3 | 26 weeks | Growth, anaemia check, danger signs |
| 4 | 30 weeks | Blood pressure, baby's position, birth plan |
| 5 | 34 weeks | Growth, blood pressure, preparing for labour |
| 6 | 36 weeks | Baby's position, final birth planning |
| 7 | 38 weeks | Readiness for labour |
| 8 | 40 weeks | Review if not yet delivered |
What happens at your first visit
- Your history: previous pregnancies, illnesses and medicines
- Measurements: blood pressure, weight and height
- Tests: haemoglobin (to check for anaemia), blood group and Rhesus factor, urine test, and screening for HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B
- Supplements: iron and folic acid to prevent anaemia and protect your baby's development
- Vaccination: tetanus–diphtheria protection for you and your newborn
- Your booklet: everything is recorded in your Mother & Child Health booklet. Bring it to every visit.
At every visit after that
We check your blood pressure, weight, urine and your baby's growth and heartbeat, and we answer your questions. As your due date approaches we focus on the birth plan.
Make a birth plan early
Decide early:
- Where you'll deliver, and a back-up facility if complications arise
- How you'll get there, day or night, and who you'll call
- Who will accompany you
- Money and SHA: confirm your SHA registration well before your due date
- Your bag: see our hospital bag checklist
Know the danger signs
Come to a facility immediately if you have bleeding, severe headache, blurred vision, swelling of the face or hands, fever, severe abdominal pain, fluid leaking or reduced baby movements. Read more in pregnancy danger signs.
ANC at Primegala
Our antenatal clinic at Maili Sita follows the national schedule, and partners are welcome. ANC is a primary healthcare service for registered SHA members. Book your first ANC visit.
At Primegala
Antenatal Care (ANC)
Regular pregnancy check-ups, tests and counselling from your first trimester.
- Open 24 hours, every day, including public holidays
- Maili Sita, opposite Kiamaina Primary School
- SHA accepted for eligible services
Frequently asked questions
When should I start antenatal care?
As soon as you know you are pregnant, ideally before 12 weeks. Early care confirms your dates and catches problems such as anaemia or infections early.
How many antenatal visits do I need in Kenya?
At least eight contacts, following WHO guidance adopted by Kenya's Ministry of Health: one in the first trimester, two in the second and five in the third.