GP During Pregnancy in Norway: Antenatal Care Explained
Pregnant women in Norway are entitled to free antenatal care from early pregnancy. Your GP plays an important role — but you can also choose a midwife as your main contact for routine check-ups. Here is everything you need to know.
What does a GP do during pregnancy?
Your GP is usually the first healthcare professional you contact when you suspect or confirm a pregnancy. They can:
- Confirm the pregnancy and give an estimated due date
- Arrange blood tests (blood type, Rh factor, haemoglobin, infection screening)
- Measure blood pressure and weight
- Advise on diet, supplements (folic acid, vitamin D) and lifestyle
- Issue a sick note (sykmelding) if you are unable to work
- Refer you to a hospital or specialist if needed
- Carry out the recommended first appointment around week 8–12
The Norwegian antenatal care programme
The Norwegian Directorate of Health recommends 8 consultations for uncomplicated pregnancies, typically spread as follows:
| Week | What happens | Who |
|---|---|---|
| 6–12 | First appointment, confirmation, blood tests, advice | GP or midwife |
| 17–19 | Routine ultrasound scan (offered to all) | Hospital / specialist |
| 24 | Growth and blood pressure check | Midwife |
| 28 | Blood tests, Rh check | GP or midwife |
| 32 | Foetal position and heartbeat | Midwife |
| 36 | Birth preparation review | Midwife |
| 38 | Cervix and foetal position check | GP or midwife |
| 40–41 | Post-dates assessment | GP or hospital |
Uncomplicated pregnancies are often mostly managed by a midwife at the family health centre (helsestasjon), while the GP handles complications and sick notes.
Midwife or GP — which should you choose?
You can choose to let a midwife at your local family health centre run all the routine check-ups. Midwifery services at the family health centre are free and available without a prior referral in most municipalities.
Many pregnant women combine both: the midwife handles routine appointments, while the GP is available for problems, sick notes, medication, and any complications that arise.
Sick leave during pregnancy
Your GP can issue a sick note during pregnancy if you have symptoms that prevent you from working. Common reasons include severe nausea (hyperemesis gravidarum), back pain, pelvic girdle pain (bekkenløsning), high blood pressure, or pre-eclampsia.
From week 22 onwards, you may be eligible for pregnancy benefit (svangerskapspenger) from NAV if you cannot be reassigned to other work and your job poses a risk to the foetus. Your GP needs to document this.
Routine ultrasound and prenatal screening
All pregnant women in Norway are offered a routine ultrasound scan around week 17–19. This is carried out at a hospital and is free of charge. No separate GP referral is needed — the scan is part of the national antenatal programme.
Prenatal diagnostic testing (NIPT, combined first-trimester screening) is offered to women aged 35 and over, or those with an elevated risk. Your GP can write a referral for this.
When the GP refers you to hospital
If the GP or midwife detects signs of complications, you will be referred to a hospital maternity unit. Common reasons include:
- Pre-eclampsia — high blood pressure and protein in the urine
- Gestational diabetes — assessed with a glucose tolerance test
- Placenta praevia — low-lying placenta
- Intrauterine growth restriction
- Twin or multiple pregnancy
What if I don't have a GP?
You do not need a GP to start antenatal care. Contact your municipality's family health centre (helsestasjon) directly — a midwife can see you there without a GP referral.
That said, it is strongly recommended to register with a GP as soon as possible. For complications, sick notes, medication prescriptions, and specialist referrals, a GP is essential.
Frequently asked questions
Can a midwife handle all my antenatal check-ups in Norway?
Yes. You can choose a midwife at the family health centre as your main contact for routine check-ups. Your GP is not required for scheduled appointments, but is important for complications and sick notes.
What do I do if I'm pregnant and don't have a GP?
Contact your local family health centre (helsestasjon) or midwife service directly. Register with a GP as soon as possible via FinnFastlege.no.
Are antenatal check-ups free in Norway?
Yes — all routine pregnancy appointments are free. There is no co-payment for scheduled check-ups with a GP or midwife.
When should I book my first GP appointment when pregnant?
As soon as you know you are pregnant, ideally at week 6–8. Early contact ensures blood tests are done in time and that follow-up is properly planned.
Pregnant and without a GP? Find one now
Antenatal care is smoother with a GP who knows your history. Check available GPs in your municipality — no login required.
Find a GP →This content is AI-generated and provides general information about antenatal care in Norway. Contact your GP, midwife, or hospital for personal guidance about your pregnancy.