Antenatal Care
Antenatal care (ANC) refers to the regular medical care and check-ups that a pregnant woman receives throughout her pregnancy to ensure both her health and the health of her developing baby. The goal of antenatal care is to monitor the progress of the pregnancy, detect any potential complications early, and provide appropriate interventions and education to promote a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Key components of antenatal care include:
Regular Check-ups: Pregnant women are usually advised to visit their healthcare provider every 4 weeks during the first 28 weeks, every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, and weekly thereafter until delivery. During these visits, the doctor monitors the mother’s and baby’s health.
Screenings and Tests: Routine tests include blood pressure measurements, urine tests to check for infections or preeclampsia, blood tests for anemia and infections (e.g., HIV, syphilis, hepatitis), and ultrasound scans to monitor fetal growth, heartbeats, and detect any abnormalities.
Vaccinations: Pregnant women may receive certain vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine and the Tdap vaccine, to protect both themselves and their babies from preventable diseases.
Education and Counseling: Antenatal care also involves providing information about a healthy diet, lifestyle, exercise, managing common pregnancy symptoms, and preparation for labor and delivery.
Managing Complications: If any complications arise, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or preterm labor, prompt treatment is provided to minimize risks to both mother and baby.
Regular antenatal care plays a critical role in reducing maternal and infant mortality and ensuring the best possible outcomes for both.
