Pregnancies conceived through IVF, ICSI or frozen embryo transfer (FET) deserve a slightly different prenatal pathway — more frequent early scans, careful first-trimester monitoring, and a delivery plan that accounts for higher-order multiples if relevant. Here is what that looks like in our network.
The first-trimester schedule
- Weeks 6–7: viability scan, dating confirmation, ruling out ectopic pregnancy and confirming number of gestational sacs
- Weeks 8–9: repeat viability scan with fetal heart activity check; medication review (continue progesterone and estrogen support as prescribed)
- Week 10: early anatomy check, nuchal translucency baseline
- Weeks 11–13: combined first-trimester screening or NIPT (cell-free DNA test)
Why more scans than a spontaneous pregnancy?
Not because IVF pregnancies are less robust, but because the monitoring schedule can detect problems earlier — vanishing twin, failed early pregnancy, ectopic — and because the family often carries more anxiety. Frequent scans with English-language reports provide both medical monitoring and emotional reassurance.
Genetic screening
NIPT (cell-free DNA test) is the standard first-line screening for chromosomal abnormalities. It is highly accurate for trisomy 21, 18 and 13, and can also screen for sex chromosome abnormalities. For donor-egg or donor-embryo pregnancies, NIPT is particularly recommended. Diagnostic testing (CVS or amniocentesis) is offered if NIPT is positive or if there are specific indications.
Cervical-length monitoring for multiples
Twin pregnancies carry a higher risk of preterm birth. Serial cervical-length measurement from week 16 helps the team anticipate preterm labour and plan for progesterone supplementation, cerclage when indicated, or transfer to a tertiary unit with NICU cover for delivery.
The delivery plan
For singleton IVF pregnancies without complications, vaginal delivery is the default plan if the mother prefers it and there are no obstetric contraindications. For twins, the plan depends on chorionicity and presentation: diamniotic-dichorionic twins with both cephalic can often be delivered vaginally; mono-di twins or non-cephalic presentations usually plan for cesarean. All IVF deliveries are scheduled in a tertiary maternity unit with NICU cover, regardless of how the pregnancy has progressed.
Emotional support
The psychological weight of an IVF pregnancy is real. Our care coordinators understand that and pace the communication accordingly — clear, honest, and never dismissive of anxiety. If you need additional psychological support during the pregnancy or postpartum, we can refer you to English-speaking perinatal psychologists.