Register a Maternal and Child Health Handbook before 13 weeks to access China's basic public health maternity services

These services are publicly funded in China. Several visits are scheduled by gestational age.

The third edition of the National Basic Public Health Service Specifications provides maternity health management for pregnant and postpartum residents in the service area: one early-pregnancy check, two mid-pregnancy checks, two late-pregnancy checks, one postnatal visit, and one check at 42 days postpartum. Register and have the first antenatal check before 13 weeks. Mid-pregnancy visits are at 16–20 and 21–24 weeks; late-pregnancy visits at 28–36 and 37–40 weeks. The cited local published service list also includes an initial set of laboratory tests and postpartum depression screening.

Five publicly funded visits are a minimum, not a complete antenatal schedule. Hospitals may add ultrasound, glucose testing, fetal heart monitoring, or other checks according to need; payment and coverage depend on local arrangements. Earlier registration permits earlier pregnancy risk classification and referral to an appropriate hospital when needed. Register where you currently live rather than assuming you must return to your household registration area.

National Health and Family Planning Commission (2017). National Basic Public Health Service Specifications, third edition. https://www.nhc.gov.cn/ewebeditor/uploadfile/2017/04/20170417104506514.pdf; Jingjiang Municipal Government. National basic public health program: maternal health management, published local service list. https://www.jingjiang.gov.cn/xxgk/zdlyxxgk/wsjk/art/2023/art_383017a2e7794892bc772bfbe042f379.html