Expecting a baby is an exciting yet sensitive time, where antenatal care becomes an important part throughout your pregnancy. It’s not just about regular check-ups – it’s about ensuring the health and well-being of both you and your baby.
So, we are here with a handy guide, in which we’ll provide you with everything you need to know about antenatal care during pregnancy. Additionally, we’ll explore why is it important and what to expect in your antenatal care appointments.
At Main Street Medical Centre, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
We prioritise your health, offering a comprehensive range of services to help and support you through all stages of your reproductive life—whether you’re it’s puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum period, or menopause.
What is Antenatal Care?
“Antenatal care is the regular medical support provided by midwife or doctors to monitor the health of the mother and baby and ensure their well-being during pregnancy.”
It involves scheduled visits with a healthcare provider who tracks the baby’s development and checks for any potential issues. Regular antenatal care during pregnancy includes a series of appointments with your healthcare provider, where various tests and screenings are conducted to ensure everything is progressing smoothly.
Importance of Antenatal Care | Why Should I Go to Antenatal Appointments
Antenatal care helps your doctor or midwife keep track of your baby’s growth, manage any existing health conditions you can have, and offer advice on nutrition, exercise, and things to avoid.
These appointments are also a chance to spot any potential risks early, which can help prevent complications. During your visits, you’ll be given options for recommended tests, and you can choose whether to go ahead with them based on informed consent.
Antenatal appointments are a perfect opportunity to discuss various aspects of your pregnancy, such as:
- Addressing any physical symptoms, you’re experiencing
- Understanding what’s happening in each trimester
- Talking about your birth plan
- Learning how to care for your baby after birth
Additionally, you can get support for your overall well-being, including mental health support, dietary advice, help with quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol, discussing any issues, you might be facing at home.
Thus, these appointments are about ensuring you’re informed, supported, and prepared for the exciting journey ahead.
Key Facts | Regarding Antenatal Care During Pregnancy
- If you think you might be pregnant, it’s important to see your GP right away.
- In Australia, the care you receive during pregnancy depends on where you plan to give birth. You have several options, including care from a midwife, GP, or obstetrician—or a combination of these professionals.
- As soon as you confirm your pregnancy, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your care options. Regular check-ups are important, even if you feel fine, as they help keep both you and your baby healthy and catch any issues early.
- Staying active, eating well, sleeping on your side, maintaining good hygiene, and keeping up with vaccinations are all important for your well-being during pregnancy. Avoid smoking, vaping, alcohol, and recreational drugs.
- Pregnancy brings many changes, both emotional and physical, such as sore breasts, thicker hair, and morning sickness. If you need extra support, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor, midwife, or a counselor. You can also call a helpline for additional help.
Ongoing Antenatal Care Coverage | When Should I Make an Antenatal Visit?
Antenatal care covers everything from your first pregnancy visit to your postpartum check-ups. Here’s a typical schedule for visits:
- Before 16 weeks, as early as possible in your pregnancy.
- Have a follow-up visit at 24 and 28 weeks.
- From 28 weeks, you’ll usually have appointments every two weeks until 36 weeks.
- After 36 weeks, you’ll see your healthcare provider weekly until you go into labor.
This schedule can change based on your individual health needs and any complications that might arise.
It’s best to schedule your first antenatal visit when you’re about 6 to 8 weeks pregnant (around 6 to 8 weeks after your last period started). This initial visit can be with a midwife, doctor, or at a clinic or hospital, often starting with your GP.
At this appointment, your healthcare provider will confirm your pregnancy and conduct a thorough health check. They will review your medical history and family health background. They’ll discuss your care plan, including:
- Where you plan to give birth.
- The location and frequency of your antenatal care appointments.
- Which health professionals you’ll see.
- Options for antenatal classes.
They can also offer tests to check for health conditions that could affect your pregnancy or delivery. You can choose whether or not to have these tests.
What to Expect During Antenatal Care Appointments?
Your antenatal care appointments depend on your specific needs based on your health, stage of pregnancy, and any issues you might be facing.
Here’s what generally happens during these visits:
Your First Antenatal Visit
Your first antenatal visit is usually scheduled as soon as you confirm your pregnancy. This initial visit sets the foundation for your care and includes:
- Medical History Review: Your doctor or midwife will start by asking about the first day of your last period to calculate your due date. They’ll also want to know about your medical history, any previous pregnancies, and any medications you’re taking. They’ll discuss your general health and offer advice on healthy eating and lifestyle changes.
- Physical Check-ups: During your appointments, your healthcare provider will monitor important aspects such
- size of your uterus
- your baby’s heartbeat
- your urine
- your blood pressure
These checks are standard worldwide to ensure good health outcomes.
- Blood Tests: Determine your blood type, check for anemia, and screen for infections like HIV, hepatitis, and rubella.
- Urine Tests: Check for signs of infection or diabetes.
- Ultrasound: Depending on your pregnancy stage, an ultrasound may confirm your pregnancy and estimate your due date.
Scheduled Antenatal Visits
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least eight antenatal visits. These visits help:
- Identify and treat any health issues early.
- Detect and manage any complications.
- Provide prevention and treatment for conditions like anemia and infections.
- Offer personalized care and prepare you for delivery.
- Provide emotional and psychological support to enhance overall care.
Your provider will arrange various checks, including:
- Ensuring you’re up-to-date with cervical screening.
- Checking your mental health and providing support if needed.
- Monitoring your blood pressure, weight, and urine.
- Organizing blood tests and screening.
- Measuring your abdomen and listening to your baby’s heartbeat.
Later Antenatal Visits
As your pregnancy progresses, your antenatal visits will evolve to ensure you and your baby are well-prepared for delivery. Here’s what you can expect in the later stages of your antenatal care:
- Antenatal Classes
You’ll receive information about antenatal classes, which can help you prepare for childbirth and parenthood. These classes often cover topics like labour and delivery, breastfeeding, and newborn care.
- Birth Plan Discussions
Your healthcare provider will discuss your birth options and preferences with you. This includes:
- choosing between a public or private hospital
- discussing pain management options
- considering who will be present during the birth
- Preparation for Baby’s Arrival
You’ll get advice on taking your baby home, including feeding, sleeping, and general care tips. This can also include information on setting up a safe sleep environment and what to expect in the early days with a newborn.
- Final Tests and Scans
You can have additional scans or tests to ensure everything is progressing smoothly. This might include checking your baby’s position and the condition of the placenta as you approach your due date.
- Emotional and Psychological Support
The later visits will also focus on providing emotional support as you approach the birth. This can be a time of mixed emotions, and your healthcare provider will be there to offer reassurance and support.
These appointments can vary based on your doctor’s instructions and your pregnancy needs.
Choose Main Street Medical Centre for Comprehensive Antenatal Care & Support
We understand how important it is to have the right care throughout your pregnancy.
We offer a comprehensive antenatal care in Perth, ensuring the health and well-being of both you and your baby. Our clinic is accredited by AGPAL (Australian General Practice Accreditation Limited), ensuring we adhere to the highest standards of care and service.
Schedule your first appointment today and take the first step towards a healthy and happy pregnancy.
Explore more of our blog posts:
