Congratulations on your pregnancy! As you embark on this incredible journey, the health of your baby and you are of utmost importance. The good news is you’re not alone on this journey. Your doctor will provide antenatal care throughout your pregnancy to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
If you are unfamiliar with antenatal care and what to expect from your appointments, worry not – we’ve compiled a quick guide in this blog to answer your questions.
An introduction to antenatal care
Antenatal care is the medical care and support a doctor or midwife provides to pregnant women during their pregnancy. As mentioned above, it aims to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby, and it is vital in preventing complications during pregnancy, labour, and delivery.
We recommend regular antenatal visits to help monitor the following to ensure both mother and baby are healthy throughout the pregnancy.
- The progress of the pregnancy,
- Provide essential screenings,
- Advice, and education on diet and exercise, and
- Address any concerns.
According to the Australian Pregnancy Care Guidelines
- If this is your first pregnancy, the advice is to have 10 antenatal care visits.
- If you have been pregnant before, the advice is that you have 7 antenatal care visits.
During these appointments, we suggest your birth support partner come with you to provide the best support during your pregnancy and delivery.
When to book your first appointment
Before we dive into what to expect during your antenatal care, you may wonder when to book your first appointment.
The best time to book your antenatal care appointment is when you are 6 to 8 weeks pregnant. By booking early, you can be well-prepared for a healthy pregnancy from the onset with all the information and tests required.
What to expect at your antenatal appointment
Every case varies from woman to woman, depending on your health. Typically, antenatal appointments occur
- monthly in the first 28 weeks,
- bi-weekly between 28 and 36 weeks, and
- weekly from 36 weeks until delivery.
- Some women with high-risk pregnancies might need more frequent check-ups.
Your antenatal care appointments will vary depending on what stage you are at during your pregnancy. But, with each appointment, you can expect the following:
- Initial Consultation and Medical History: At your initial consultation, your doctor will discuss your medical history, including the following
- Previous pregnancies,
- Any underlying health conditions,
- Medications you may be taking and your
- Diet and lifestyle.
- Physical Examinations: You will undergo several tests and scans, including a pelvic exam, to measure
- your blood pressure,
- the size of your abdomen,
- the baby’s growth,
- check the position of your baby and
- the condition of your cervix as you get closer to your due date.
- Blood Tests and Screenings: During your first and second trimester, you will have blood tests to check for conditions such as
- anemia,
- Gestational Diabetes, and
- Genetic or chromosomal conditions.
- Urine Tests: Along with the blood tests, you will have regular urine tests to check for signs of
- urinary tract infections (UTIs),
- protein in the urine (which could indicate preeclampsia), and
- glucose levels (which can indicate gestational diabetes).
- Ultrasounds: Get ready for the exciting moment when you hear your baby’s heartbeat for the first time.
Your first ultrasound is at 8-12 weeks to confirm the pregnancy. Your doctor may schedule others throughout your pregnancy as required. Your healthcare provider performs ultrasound scans to
- assess fetal growth and development,
- confirm due dates, and
- check for abnormalities.
- Mental Health and Emotional Support: During your pregnancy, you may experience several emotions and mood changes. This is normal due to the changes in your hormones. Your Healthcare providers are there to offer support and can direct you to counseling or support groups if needed.
- Preparation for Birth: As you near your due date, you’ll have antenatal class visits to discuss childbirth preparation, including
- what to expect during labour,
- pain management options, and,
- any birth plan preferences you may have.
Having a healthy pregnancy
Remember, you are not alone on this magical journey towards parenthood. Your doctor or midwife will answer questions and provide all the information and support you need.
Have you received the good news of pregnancy? Start your journey towards a healthy pregnancy with Wollongong Obstetrics and Gynaecology today.
Throughout our time with you during your pregnancy and after delivery, you can be confident that we will provide the support you need to make suitable and informed choices for your benefit and your baby.