Pregnancy is an incredible journey, filled with excitement, anticipation and a few nerves.
As an expecting mother, ensuring the health and well-being of both you and your baby should be your top priority. Immediately you realise 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 who are keen on their ante-natal appointments and those who cannot be bothered in all these. The results are always evident.
Ante-natal care refers to the regular check-ups 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 ante-natal 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 personalised guidance to help you have the best possible experience.
When do you need to start ante-natal clinic
WHO recommends a minimum of 8 ante-natal visits based on a review of effectiveness of different models of the ante-natal care.
Ideally, it is advisable to start ante-natal 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 ante-natal
Any government facility in Ghana provides ante-natal 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 ante-natal 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 ante-natal check-ups, 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. Ante-natal 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 ante-natal visits are a crucial investment in you and your baby’s well-being. Embrace this special time and talk to your midwife. She will guide you toward a happy, healthy pregnancy.
Sarah, also known as The Global Midwife, is a midwife by profession and an advocate for reproductive, maternal, child and menstrual health and hygiene.
