Need to talk? Call 1800 882 436.
It's a free call with a maternal child health nurse. *call charges may apply from your mobile

Is it an emergency? Dial 000
If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately.

beginning of content

Questions to ask your doctor about tests and scans

3-minute read

Checklist of question to ask your doctor or midwife about tests and scans during pregnancy.

Download this guide as a PDF

View text version of infographic

Questions to ask your doctor about tests and scans

You will be offered a number of tests and scans during your pregnancy to check on the health of you and your baby.

Your doctor or midwife are there to support you during your pregnancy and you shouldn't be afraid to ask them questions about the care they are giving you.

  • Is this test, treatment or scan routine during pregnancy?
  • How does the procedure work?
  • Why do I need it?
  • When should I have it?
  • What are the benefits to me or my baby?
  • Are there any side-effects?
  • Are there any risks to me or my baby?
  • Do I have to have it?
  • When will I get the results?
  • What happens if the results of a test are positive?
  • What happens if they are negative?
  • What are the chances of the test result being wrong?
  • Is there anything I need to do to prepare for the test?
  • Do I need to do anything to care for myself after the test?
  • Are there any costs involved?
  • What support is available if something is wrong with my pregnancy?

Remember that it’s your right to be fully informed about any tests or treatment you’re asked to have and to refuse any tests or treatment you’re offered.

Want more like this?

See more guides and infographics from Pregnancy, Birth and Baby.

Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.

Last reviewed: July 2023


Back To Top

Related pages

Search our site for

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

1800 882 436

Video call

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.

© 2024 Healthdirect Australia Limited

This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

Except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, this publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, altered, adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Australia.