How to navigate Antenatal appointments while working
Mastering Antenatal appointments while working: Your rights, tips, and expert advice
Balancing pregnancy and a busy job can be challenging, especially when it comes to fitting in antenatal appointments. While these check-ins are essential for your health and your baby’s, they often come with time pressures; both from your workplace and the short nature of the appointments themselves."
Jilly Clarke
How can you make balancing work and antenatal appointments during pregnancy work? From understanding your rights to making the most of every appointment, this guide will help you feel prepared and in control.
Your right to attend Antenatal appointments during work hours
In the UK, if you're employed, you're legally entitled to paid time off for antenatal care. This includes:
Midwife or GP appointments
Hospital scans and tests
Antenatal classes if they’ve been recommended by a healthcare provider
Your partner can also take unpaid time off for two antenatal appointments (up to 6.5 hours per appointment). Some employers may offer additional flexibility, so it’s worth checking your workplace policy.
Quick tip: If your appointments tend to run late or require additional testing, give your employer a heads-up that appointment times can be unpredictable. A little flexibility can go a long way.
How to manage Antenatal appointments with work
With community midwife appointments, these are often arranged at your previous appointment, so there is freedom to arrange appointments to suit your schedule more.
Hospital antenatal appointments and scans are often scheduled without much choice, but
there are still ways to minimise disruption:
Be strategic about timing: Think about which times work best for you. Many people try to arrange appointments for first thing, or as late as possible, to have less of an impact at work. But if possible, if you can work from home for instance, consider opting for mid-morning or mid-afternoon appointments. These could be quieter, with shorter waiting times.
Stack your appointments: Where possible, combine routine check-ups, blood tests, or scans on the same day.
Use remote work to your advantage: If you work from home, consider shifting your hours or working before or after your appointment.
Try lunchtime slots: Some clinics may offer lunchtime or early evening appointments — ask if this is available. Plan buffer time: Appointments can run over, particularly at hospitals. Build extra time into your schedule to reduce stress.
Example Script to use with your employer:
"I have an antenatal appointment on Thursday morning at 10:30 am. I expect to be away for two hours, including travel time. I’ll ensure my tasks are covered, and I’m happy to adjust my hours this week if necessary. Thanks for your understanding."
How to talk to your employer about Antenatal appointments
It’s always helpful to approach the conversation positively and confidently.
Here’s how you might start the conversation:
Be clear and factual: "I have at appointment at (set time and date), I’m entitled to paid time off for antenatal appointments. I’ll always try to minimise disruption to work and will keep you updated on my schedule. I'll let you know as soon as I have notice of the appointments."
Offer solutions: "If needed, I’m happy to adjust my hours to catch up on tasks, or I can work from home on appointment days. If work needs to be covered I have a running project update so that everybody involved in the work is kept up to speed."
Address concerns directly: "I understand this may require some flexibility. I’m committed to managing my workload efficiently."
If you encounter resistance, consider referring to the UK Government guidelines on pregnancy rights at work.
Making the most of your Antenatal appointments
Antenatal appointments are often brief, lasting around 10-20 minutes, so preparation is key. Be prepared for the possibility of being referred for further checks at the hospital if anything is flagged at your appointment. Sometimes referrals are immediate, and you're asked to go straight there. Other times you will be contacted for an additional appointment within a few days.
Write down your questions: Keep a running list of concerns or topics you’d like to cover.
Prioritise what matters most: Start with the most pressing questions in case time runs short. Take notes: Jot down key details or ask for a summary if you need clarification.
Bring a support person: If possible, a partner or friend can offer support and help remember the information you receive.
Extra Tip: Bring a notebook or use your phone’s notes app to record your midwife’s recommendations. You can also ask for leaflets or trusted online resources for further reading.
Questions to ask at your next appointment
Although there isn't a lot of time for education and discussions within midwife appointments, because they are medical appointments for you; it is still a good idea to use your appointment to get valuable insights. Here are some questions to consider:
Are there any signs or symptoms I should be particularly aware of before my next appointment?
How can I manage pregnancy symptoms like back pain or fatigue, especially while working?
What exercises or stretches can help me stay comfortable?
Are there any concerns with my blood pressure, urine, or test results? What are you looking for in these tests?
What can I do now to support a smoother birth and recovery?
How can I mentally and physically prepare for labour?
Using BRAINS to make informed decisions
If your appointment involves making decisions about further tests, treatments, or interventions, the
BRAINS tool can help you weigh your options:
Benefits – What are the benefits of this option?
Risks – Are there any risks I should consider?
Alternatives – Are there other options available? What at the benefits and risk to them compared with the first option?
Instinct – How do I feel about this choice?
Nothing – What happens if I do nothing for now?
Second opinion – Do I have time to think or seek a second opinion?
Recognising Red Flags and what to do
Red flags aren’t just for medical appointments. How your employer responds to your antenatal needs can also indicate whether you’re being properly supported.
Red Flags at Work
Pressuring you to skip appointments.
Guilt-tripping or suggesting your appointments are disruptive.
Refusing to accommodate flexible working requests.
Lack of clear maternity policies or support.
What to Do:
Document any concerning conversations.
Refer to HR or your employee handbook.
Seek external support from organisations like ACAS or Pregnant Then Screwed.
Red Flags in Antenatal Care
Dismissive responses to your questions.
Pressure to accept decisions without a clear explanation.
Being told something is “just policy” with no further clarification.
What to Do:
Ask for further explanation.
Use the BRAINS tool to weigh your options.
Consider a second opinion from another midwife, Dr or consultant midwife.
Managing antenatal care while working doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By knowing your rights, preparing for appointments, and spotting red flags early, you can advocate for yourself confidently.
And remember — your employer may already provide access to The Birth and Baby Company’s expert-led online antenatal courses as part of their benefits package. Our courses cover everything from navigating appointments to preparing for birth and postnatal recovery.
Speak with your employer today to see if you have access. Because when you’re informed, you’re empowered. Explore our antenatal courses through your workplace benefits.
The Birth and Baby Company can help
Our on-demand antenatal courses, exercise videos and support programs provide expecting parents with the knowledge and confidence they need for a smooth pregnancy, birth, and transition to parenthood. Our range of packages can provide 1:1 support, regular Q&As. Crucially, all packages provide education on communication with healthcare professionals, understanding risks and options, knowledge on physically supporting themselves through pregnancy, birth and recovery, and advocating for their preferences.
Contact us today to learn how we can help your company support its most valuable asset – its people.
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