Antenatal care

Medical care given to pregnant women before childbirth

Antenatal care
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Synonyms	Prenatal care
Pronounce	N/A
Field	Obstetrics
Symptoms
Complications
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Antenatal care (also known as prenatal care) is a type of preventive healthcare with the goal of providing regular check-ups that allow physicians or midwives to treat and prevent potential health problems throughout the course of the pregnancy while promoting healthy lifestyles that benefit both mother and child.

Importance

Antenatal care is crucial for monitoring the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. Regular visits can help detect and manage complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. It also provides an opportunity for healthcare providers to educate expectant mothers on nutrition, exercise, and what to expect during labor and delivery.

Components

Antenatal care typically includes:

• Regular physical examinations
• Ultrasound scans to monitor fetal development
• Blood tests to check for conditions like anemia and infections
• Screening for genetic disorders
• Monitoring of blood pressure
• Education on diet and exercise
• Guidance on managing common pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness and fatigue

Schedule

The schedule for antenatal visits can vary, but generally includes:

• Monthly visits during the first 28 weeks of pregnancy
• Bi-weekly visits from 28 to 36 weeks
• Weekly visits from 36 weeks until delivery

Benefits

The benefits of antenatal care include:

• Early detection and management of potential complications
• Improved maternal and fetal health outcomes
• Reduced risk of maternal mortality and infant mortality
• Enhanced knowledge and preparedness for childbirth and parenting

Global Perspective

Antenatal care practices can vary widely around the world. In some regions, access to antenatal care is limited, which can lead to higher rates of complications and mortality. Efforts by organizations such as the World Health Organization aim to improve access to quality antenatal care globally.

See also

• Obstetrics
• Midwifery
• Maternal health
• Childbirth
• Postnatal care