All you should know about antenatal care

Verified by:

Dr. Bindhu KS, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai

Antenatal care, also known as prenatal care, refers to the healthcare and support provided to pregnant women by healthcare professionals during their pregnancy. It is a crucial aspect of maternal and child health, as it aims to monitor and promote the well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. Antenatal care plays a significant role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy, reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, and preventing complications during childbirth. Here are some key aspects of antenatal care:

• Early initiation: Ideally, antenatal care should begin as early as possible after confirming pregnancy. Early initiation allows healthcare providers to assess the mother’s health status, identify risk factors, and develop appropriate care plans.

• Regular check-ups: Pregnant women are advised to attend scheduled check-ups throughout their pregnancy. These visits typically occur monthly in the early stages and become more frequent as the pregnancy progresses. During these visits, the healthcare provider monitors the mother’s health, fetal development, and screens for any potential complications.
• Health monitoring: Antenatal care involves monitoring the mother’s blood pressure, weight, and urine to detect any signs of gestational diabetes, hypertension, or other health issues that may arise during pregnancy.
• Nutrition and supplements: Healthcare providers offer dietary advice and recommend prenatal supplements such as folic acid, iron, and calcium to ensure the mother and baby receive essential nutrients for healthy development.
• Screening tests: Antenatal care includes a series of screening tests and ultrasounds to assess the baby’s growth and identify any congenital anomalies or genetic conditions.
• Education and counseling: Pregnant women receive education and counseling on various aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care. This empowers them to make informed decisions and adopt healthy practices.
• Managing discomforts: Healthcare providers offer guidance on managing common pregnancy discomforts like morning sickness, backache, and fatigue.
• Immunizations: Antenatal care includes vaccination against certain diseases to protect both the mother and baby, such as tetanus and influenza.
• Emotional support: Emotional and psychological support is a crucial component of antenatal care. Pregnancy can be emotionally challenging, and providing support can positively impact the mother’s mental well-being.
• Preparation for childbirth: Antenatal care often includes information on childbirth options, delivery planning, and preparing for labor and delivery.

Antenatal care is essential to detect and manage potential complications early, reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, and ensure a healthy start for the newborn. Pregnant women are encouraged to engage in regular antenatal care to receive the best possible support and medical attention throughout their pregnancy journey.

Connect with our expert Dr. Bindhu KS, Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai for antenatal, delivery and postnatal consultation.