Understanding Antenatal Care
Antenatal care is the comprehensive health service provided to women during pregnancy. It focuses on monitoring the mother’s and baby’s health, preventing complications, and preparing for a safe delivery. This essential service includes regular check-ups, screening tests, education, and emotional support tailored to each stage of pregnancy.
What is Antenatal Care?
Antenatal care involves scheduled visits with healthcare professionals to:
Monitor fetal growth and wellbeing
Track maternal health indicators such as blood pressure and weight
Conduct essential screening tests (e.g., blood tests, ultrasounds)
Provide nutritional and lifestyle advice
Identify and manage pregnancy-related complications
Offer guidance on birth plans and parenting preparation
This service aims to ensure the healthiest possible outcome for mother and baby.
What to Expect During Antenatal Care
During antenatal care appointments, you can expect:
Routine physical examinations and measurements
Ultrasound scans to check baby’s development
Blood and urine tests for health monitoring
Discussions about symptoms, nutrition, and emotional wellbeing
Advice on exercise, medication, and lifestyle changes
Planning for labour, delivery, and postpartum care
Appointments are usually scheduled monthly in early pregnancy, increasing in frequency closer to delivery.
Who Conducts This Service
Antenatal care is provided by:
Obstetricians and gynaecologists
Midwives
General practitioners with maternity training
Specialist maternal-fetal medicine doctors for high-risk pregnancies
All providers on My Health Assistant are qualified, registered, and experienced in maternity care.
Who Might Need This Service
Antenatal care is recommended for:
All pregnant women for routine monitoring and support
Women with high-risk pregnancies (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, multiple pregnancies)
Expecting mothers with previous pregnancy complications
Women seeking education and emotional support during pregnancy
Early and consistent antenatal care improves pregnancy outcomes.
Types of Antenatal Care
Depending on individual needs, antenatal care services may include:
Standard routine check-ups
High-risk pregnancy monitoring
Ultrasound and fetal assessment clinics
Nutritional counselling and pregnancy wellness programs
Mental health support and counselling services
Care plans are personalised based on your pregnancy and health status.
Risks Associated with Antenatal Care
Antenatal care is a safe and essential health service. However, the risks addressed during care include:
Pregnancy complications like pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes
Risks of premature labour or fetal growth restrictions
Potential health concerns requiring specialist referral
Regular antenatal visits help identify and manage risks early for better outcomes.
How to Choose the Right Health Professional
When selecting an antenatal care service near me, consider:
Credentials and experience in maternity care
Accessibility and location convenience
Communication style and emotional support offered
Ability to manage normal and high-risk pregnancies
Availability of additional services like childbirth education
Use My Health Assistant to find trusted antenatal care providers near you who meet your needs.
Summary
Antenatal care is a vital service ensuring the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby throughout pregnancy. By connecting you with expert healthcare professionals, My Health Assistant makes it easy to access quality antenatal care service near me for a safe and supported pregnancy journey.
