Antenatal care (before birth)

• What is antenatal care?

  Care throughout pregnancy for mother and baby
• Why is antenatal care important?

  It addresses medical issues early for mother and baby
• What are the benefits of antenatal care for the mother?

  • Health checks for mother and baby
  • Information on healthy pregnancy
  • Advice on dealing with pregnancy issues
  • Meeting medical team for birth
  • Discussing and agreeing on a birth plan
  • Information on types of birth and pain relief
  • Familiarization with hospital and labor wards
  • Antenatal classes and support from other mothers
  • Tests and checks for health reassurance
• Who checks the health of a pregnant woman and her baby?

  Health professionals at antenatal care
• What kind of advice can midwives provide during antenatal care?

  Advice on lifestyle and pregnancy-related problems
• What is the role of an obstetrician in antenatal care?

  Specializes in childbirth and records medical history
• Why is a birth plan important for the mother?

  It ensures her wishes are noted and respected
• What types of birth information can mothers gain during antenatal care?

  Induction, forceps, and pain relief options
• How does familiarization with the hospital help the mother?

  Prepares her for labor and delivery
• What are antenatal classes designed to provide?

  Support, advice, and friendships among mothers
• What types of tests are conducted during antenatal appointments?

  Tests to ensure baby and mother’s health
• What does a urine test check for during antenatal care?

  Glucose, protein, and bacteria
• What does a blood test during antenatal care check for?

  Blood type, infections, and anemia
• Why is blood pressure checked at every visit?

  To monitor for pre-eclampsia and hypertension
• What is the average weight gain during pregnancy?

  12 kg
• What is the normal range for a baby's heartbeat?

  120 to 160 beats per minute
• What is the purpose of screening tests during pregnancy?

  To detect chromosomal abnormalities and conditions
• What is amniocentesis used for?

  To examine chromosomal abnormalities
• What does the quadruple test measure?

  Four chromosomes in the mother's blood
• What is the purpose of chorionic villus sampling?

  To examine cells for chromosomal abnormalities
• How do screening tests differ from routine tests in antenatal care?

  Screening tests detect abnormalities, routine tests monitor health