Antenatal Care

The duration of pregnancy can be an exciting time for expectant mothers. Granted that preconception provides insight on possible risks and recommendations to prevent them, antenatal care is the support and preventative healthcare during your pregnancy that ensures your baby’s health.

It is recommended for your first antenatal visit to occur within the first 6-8 weeks of pregnancy. Your first visit will consist of a dating scan, reviewing your gynaecological history and answering any questions or concerns you may have. After that, you will be required to have one monthly antenatal visit until you’re 28 weeks pregnant. Following this will be one visit every 2 weeks until you’re 36 weeks along. From weeks 36 to 40, one weekly appointment will be required.

First Trimester

Antenatal care during the first trimester consists of many different aspects. A blood test may be performed to measure your haemoglobin, check your immunity to certain infections and discover exposure to other infections. Dr Zulu will also perform a screening test to check for any fetal abnormalities and provide an estimated due date. You will also be informed about symptoms of early-stage pregnancy, such as morning sickness.

Second Trimester

During the second trimester, every visit will include taking your blood pressure and checking your weight, but the main focus will be on the baby. This includes tracking the growth of the baby, listening to the heartbeat and monitoring fetal movement.

Third Trimester

Antenatal visits during the third trimester are generally shorter than during the first and second, but they’re still imperative in monitoring the growth and health of the baby. The appointments consist of weighing you, checking your blood pressure and measuring your abdomen to see if the baby is growing correctly.

Throughout antenatal care, Dr Zulu will advise you on any dietary and lifestyle changes that could aid in a healthy pregnancy. He will also ensure that you feel comfortable asking questions that may concern you.