Pregnancy is an incredible journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and questions. Ensuring the best for both mother and baby starts with Antenatal Care. This essential healthcare service focuses on monitoring and supporting the health of pregnant women and their growing babies throughout pregnancy. At My Health Assistant, we help you find trusted antenatal care professionals near you, so you can feel supported and informed every step of the way.
Antenatal care, also known as prenatal care, is the medical support and health monitoring provided to pregnant women throughout pregnancy. It ensures the well-being of both mother and baby by detecting potential complications early, offering necessary vaccinations, and providing guidance on nutrition, lifestyle, and delivery options.
Monitors maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy.
Reduces the risk of pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes.
Provides essential screenings for fetal development and maternal conditions.
Offers emotional and mental health support during pregnancy.
Prepares expectant mothers for labor, delivery, and postnatal care.
Initial Antenatal Visit
Confirm pregnancy and estimate the due date.
Conduct a medical history assessment.
Perform routine blood and urine tests.
Discuss lifestyle adjustments (nutrition, exercise, and substance use).
Regular Check-Ups & Monitoring
Blood pressure and weight checks.
Monitoring fetal growth and heart rate.
Ultrasound scans to assess fetal development.
Blood tests for anemia, infections, and gestational diabetes.
Nutritional Guidance
Folic acid and iron supplementation.
Balanced diet recommendations for a healthy pregnancy.
Prenatal Screening & Diagnostic Tests
Nuchal translucency scan and blood tests for genetic conditions.
Gestational diabetes screening.
Group B streptococcus (GBS) test in the third trimester.
Vaccinations During Pregnancy
Flu vaccine to protect against seasonal flu.
Whooping cough vaccine (Tdap) for newborn protection.
COVID-19 vaccine (if applicable) for maternal and fetal safety.
Birth Planning & Labor Preparation
Discussion of delivery preferences (natural birth, epidural, C-section).
Guidance on signs of labor and when to go to the hospital.
Understanding pain relief options and relaxation techniques.
Obstetricians & Gynecologists (OB/GYNs)
Specialize in pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
Manage high-risk pregnancies and medical conditions.
Midwives
Provide prenatal education, routine check-ups, and labor support.
Assist in normal, low-risk deliveries at hospitals, birth centers, or homes.
General Practitioners (GPs) or Family Doctors
Conduct initial pregnancy confirmation and referrals to specialists.
Monitor overall maternal health and manage minor pregnancy symptoms.
Sonographers & Radiologists
Perform ultrasounds and fetal monitoring scans.
Dietitians & Nutritionists
Offer dietary guidance and supplement recommendations.
Physiotherapists & Pelvic Health Specialists
Help manage pregnancy-related discomfort, back pain, and pelvic floor health.
Mental Health Professionals
Support emotional well-being, anxiety, and pregnancy-related depression.
Book an appointment with a GP or midwife as soon as pregnancy is confirmed.
Attend scheduled check-ups to monitor maternal and fetal health.
Join prenatal classes for childbirth preparation and parenting guidance.
Utilize online and community resources for additional pregnancy support.
Antenatal care supports a healthy pregnancy, safe delivery, and the well-being of both mother and baby. Regular check-ups, nutritional guidance, and expert support help expectant mothers feel informed and prepared. If you’re pregnant or planning for a baby, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional to begin your antenatal care journey today.
