Antenatal Care: Nurturing a Healthy Pregnancy Journey

What is Antenatal Care? Pregnancy is an extraordinary and transforming journey. The incredible changes you experience can fill you with anticipation, excitement, and a touch of uncertainty.

Therefore, your well-being and that of your growing baby become paramount during this period. Antenatal care is vital to ensuring a smooth and healthy pregnancy journey.

What is Antenatal Care?

Antenatal care is the medical care that expectant mothers receive throughout their pregnancy. It involves scheduled visits to a healthcare provider specialising in pregnancy and birth. The goal is to ensure your well-being and that of your baby. UNICEF recommends antenatal care for women to understand warning signs during pregnancy and childbirth and to receive all the support they need.

What are the Benefits of Antenatal Care?

Antenatal is more than just medical check-ups and screenings. Antenatal appointments help monitor your pregnancy’s progress, address your concerns, and take proactive steps to prevent complications.

 Hence, regular visits to your healthcare provider during pregnancy play a crucial role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and a safe delivery.

Some of the specific benefits of include

1. Personalised care: Antenatal care is tailored to your needs, considering factors such as medical history, age, and lifestyle. With a personalised approach, your maternity care aligns with your specific needs.
2. Early detection of complications: Regular antenatal visits allow healthcare providers to identify and address potential complications early, reducing risks for you and your baby.
3. Promotes confidence and readiness: Antenatal equips expectant parents with knowledge, skills, and confidence to enable them to participate actively in their pregnancy journey and make informed decisions.
4. Healthy pregnancy outcome: Guidance and close monitoring of your pregnancy contribute to a positive pregnancy outcome and reduce the likelihood of preterm birth or low birth weight.

When to Start Antenatal Care   

You should start antenatal care as soon as you confirm you are pregnant. 

The frequency of your antenatal appointments depends on your health, your pregnancy’s progress, and other factors. However, the frequency will vary in each trimester.

First Trimester (Weeks 1-12): Early visits will confirm your pregnancy, assess your health, and estimate your delivery date.

Second Trimester (Weeks 13-28): These appointments involve routine check-ups and screenings.

Third Trimester (Weeks 29-40+): As your due date approaches, visits become more frequent. Your healthcare provider will monitor your baby’s position, growth, and readiness for birth.

What to Expect During Antenatal Appointments

During antenatal appointments, you will meet your healthcare provider, address your questions or concerns, and receive the support you need to navigate your pregnancy journey. Here’s what you can generally expect during antenatal appointments.

1. Initial medical history review: At your first antenatal appointment, your healthcare provider will review your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, previous pregnancies, surgeries, allergies, and medications you are taking. Moreover, it serves as a guide to give you focused maternity care that fits your needs.
2. Routine check-ups and screenings: Routine check-ups such as physical examinations, blood tests, ultrasound scans, and screenings are part of antenatal appointments.
3. Nutritional guidance: Tips on proper nutrition to ensure your baby’s optimal health and growth.
4. Exercise and lifestyle recommendations: Your healthcare provider will advise you on nutrition, exercise, and self-care to support your well-being and baby.
5. Preparation for labour and birth: As your pregnancy progresses, you can discuss your preferences for labour and delivery, pain management options, and other considerations with your healthcare provider.
6. Antenatal classes: Maternity classes offer valuable insights into childbirth, breastfeeding, and newborn care. These sessions empower you with the knowledge and skills to transition into motherhood.

How to Register for Antenatal Care at Best Western Hospital

Antenatal registration at Best Western Hospital is straightforward. All you need to do is walk into any of our facilities. 

1. A nurse will check your vitals at your first visit and subsequent ones. 
2. A doctor will review your medical history to enable them to give you maternity care that fits your needs.
3. If necessary, you will undergo laboratory scans and other investigations.

Antenatal care is the cornerstone of health and well-being during pregnancy. Prioritising antenatal care means prioritising physical health, emotional well-being, and informed decision-making. You can navigate the uncertainty of pregnancy with the guidance of healthcare providers, ensuring a smooth and healthy journey for you and your baby.