During pregnancy, regular antenatal care is essential for new mothers. What happens during obstetrician-gynaecologist visits, and how often should they be done?
Antenatal care, also known as prenatal care, is a type of preventive health care that takes the form of medical examinations and consists of recommendations for a healthy lifestyle and medical information about maternal physiological and biological changes.
Antenatal care helps reduce risks during pregnancy and increases the chances of a safe and healthy delivery. Regular antenatal care can help your doctor to monitor your pregnancy and detect any problems or complications before they become serious.
The frequency of antenatal care increases in the third trimester because certain pregnancy complications, such as pre-eclampsia, are more likely to occur in the third trimester. Problems with the baby’s growth are also more common later in pregnancy, so your doctor will measure your weight and belly size, for example, more often in the last trimester.
If the patient’s age or health condition means that the pregnancy is considered high-risk, more frequent check-ups and tests may be required, or special care may be needed.
The following tests will be carried out during the visits:
At the end of the first trimester, the first ultrasound scan is done to screen for genetic abnormalities, and during the second trimester, a glucose test is done to rule out gestational diabetes. Genetic counselling is absolutely necessary in the case of hereditary diseases.
Based on the risk factors, the doctor may recommend genetic testing, including 12-week blood sampling, to check for chromosomal abnormalities that cause conditions such as Down’s syndrome, Edwards syndrome and anterior stenosis.
Pregnancy is an exciting time, marked by significant changes and a time when your body experiences many new symptoms. Knowing what to expect during pregnancy can help you cope with the many changes, and best of all, it can be done with the support of trained, experienced professionals throughout the process.
Expecting a baby and want the best care during your prenatal care? Book an appointment for a gynecological examination with the excellent specialists at Wáberer Medical Center, or call us at +36-1-323-7000 to be seen at our well-equipped clinic in Buda without a long wait.
