Antenatal Visits Matter: Why Timely Monitoring Is Important To Ensure Safer Pregnancies

Pregnancy comes with a lot of anticipation and questions. But behind all the safe deliveries and healthy babies is a well-monitored pregnancy, and that’s where the antenatal visits and checks matter. It is a known fact that antenatal visits are important for the health of both the expectant mother and the baby. These check-ups help detect complications, seek proper care, and ensure safe delivery. Here, the expert helps to understand its importance of these check-ups.

Antenatal visits or prenatal check-ups are scheduled appointments with the doctor for a smooth pregnancy. These visits begin in the first trimester and continue regularly throughout pregnancy until the baby is born. These visits tend to include physical exams, blood tests, ultrasound scans, and monitoring of vital signs. Antenatal visits help to examine the growth and development of the baby, monitor the mother's health, and detect any early signs of potential complications. Every couple should go for prenatal check-ups without fail. Benefits and importance of routine antenatal visits:

This article is authored by Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant- Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai.

The Crucial Role of Antenatal Visits in Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy

· Regular visits help identify high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, anemia, or infections, which can invite complications for expectant mothers if left untreated. So, a prompt management plan can be initiated after prompt diagnosis.

· Through ultrasound, the expert will ensure that the baby is growing inside the womb. Don’t miss the antenatal visits as they can help the mother understand the health status.

· Expectant mothers receive diet advice and are prescribed folic acid, iron, calcium, and other supplements vital for the baby’s development. Don’t take any supplements without the doctor’s advice. Furthermore, try to avoid junk, oily, canned, sugary, and processed foods. Stay hydrated by drinking enough water. Expectant mothers can take the help of an expert regarding what to eat and avoid during pregnancy.

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Health Monitoring and Emotional Support During Pregnancy

· Pregnant women are advised on important vaccinations (like tetanus and flu) and undergo screening tests to detect any genetic or structural problems. Follow the guidelines given by the doctor. Antenatal visits also offer a chance for mothers to discuss their delivery plan and any emotional concerns, enhancing overall well-being. Sometimes, the expectant mother can feel anxious, stressed before the birth of the baby. Here, the expert can guide the mother promptly.

· Antenatal check-ups help ensure weight gain is on track. Experts also suggest safe exercises to stay active and reduce pregnancy discomforts like back pain and swelling.

· One might feel anxious , have mood swings or even have prenatal depression. In such cases, regular counselling with the expert and support groups plays an important role. One should open up and share their feelings with family members, partner, and their doctors.

· The Presence of a partner during the visits can help them understand the process better, ask questions, and feel more involved. It also strengthens emotional support for the mother.

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