Antenatal care is provided by obstetricians, either at private clinics or at a hospital outpatient department. Antenatal classes are provided at some hospitals and by independent midwives. Care is of a very high standard and you will normally be offered an ultrasound scan at every visit. At each check up you will be weighed, have your blood pressure taken and your urine checked for protein and sugar levels. Screening tests are carried out to detect possible birth defects.

Some obstetricians will only see patients at the hospital where they plan to deliver. Others may have an independent clinic and offer a choice of hospitals for delivery. Most people choose their obstetrician based on personal recommendation or on the hospital where they want to deliver if they have a strong preference. You will normally see the same doctor throughout your pregnancy and they will manage your labour and deliver your baby.

There’s a high level of intervention in the birth process, including induction of labour, forceps and vacuum deliveries and c-sections. If you’re strongly in favour of an active or natural birth, choose your doctor carefully as many are not supportive of this. Dr Choong Kuo Hsiang at Pantai Medical Centre is highly recommended for women who want a natural birth. The c-section rate is high, and doctors will usually agree to an elective c-section, although this may not be covered by insurance. Most mothers stay in hospital for two or three days after birth, or up to a week after a c-section.

If you’re over 35, the risks for some birth defects increase and you may be offered extra screening. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the risks and benefits of each test.

Ibu (www.ibufamily.org) has a pregnancy support group where you can meet other women and get advice on maternity care. Mamalink (www.mamalink.com.my) offers antenatal classes, as does Jenlia (03 7726 7002). Fit For 2 (www.fitfor2.com.my) offers a range of fitness classes for pregnant women from a UK certified instructor.