Pregnancy is an incredible journey, filled with excitement, anticipation, and a few nerves.
As an expecting mother, ensuring the health and wellbeing of both you and your baby should be your top priority. Immediately you realize you are pregnant (whether you find out through a home pregnancy test or a blood test), the next step is to visit a hospital to take an ultrasound scan to rule out Ectopic pregnancy. (Any pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus/womb).
For my many years in practice, I have encountered two sets of pregnant women. Those that are keen on their antenatal appointments and those that cannot be botheredin all these, always, the results are evident.
Antenatal care refers to the regular checkups and monitoring you’ll receive throughout your pregnancy, provided by healthcare professionals such as obstetricians and midwives.
These visits play a vital role in tracking the progress of your pregnancy, identifying any potential complications early on, and ensuring you and your baby stay happy and healthy.
You need to come to the understanding that regular antenatal visits are essential for a smooth pregnancy journey.
They allow us (Midwives and Obstetricians) to closely monitor you and your baby’s development, address any concerns, and provide personalized guidance to help you have the best possible experience.
When do you need to start antenatal clinic
WHO recommends a minimum of 8 antenatal visits based on a review of effectiveness of different models of the antenatal care.
Ideally it is advisable to start Antenatal clinic as early as 8 weeks then you attend once every month in your first trimester (1-3rd month), twice every month in the 2nd trimester (4th-6th month) and once every week in the 3rd trimester (7th to 10th month).
Where can a to be mum attend antenatal
Any government facility in Ghana provides Antenatal services as well as some private hospitals. It is best to settle on a facility you are comfortable with both the environment and customer service
So what can you expect during these antenatal appointments?
Here are some of the key health checks and screenings that may be performed:
– Physical exams: Your midwife will check your weight, height, blood pressure, and measure your belly to ensure your baby is growing as expected.
– Blood and urine tests: These tests can detect issues like anaemia, infections, and gestational diabetes, allowing for early intervention.
– Ultrasounds: Ultrasound scans provide a glimpse of your baby, checking for any structural abnormalities and monitoring growth.
– Genetic screening: Optional genetic tests can identify chromosomal conditions or genetic disorders.
– Vaccinations: You may receive vaccines to protect you and your baby, such as the flu shot or whooping cough vaccine, Tetanus injection etc.
Medication: During ANC, pregnant women are given Iron and folic acid supplements to reduce the risk of low birth weight, maternal anaemia and iron deficiency.
By attending these regular antenatal checkups, you’re taking a proactive approach to your pregnancy health. Your healthcare team can address any concerns, provide valuable education, and work with you to create a personalised plan for a smooth, stress-free pregnancy journey.
I will urge to be moms to take their ANC seriously. Antenatal care is all about empowering expectant mothers.
It gives you the knowledge and support you need to make informed decisions and have the healthiest pregnancy possible. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and be an active participant in your care. So if you’re an expectant mother, remember – your antenatal visits are a crucial investment in you and your baby’s wellbeing. Embrace this special time and Talk to your Midwife. She will guide you towards a happy, healthy pregnancy.
