State encourages eight antenatal visits

THE Department of Health has encouraged pregnant women to attend at least eight antenatal visits as it shines a spotlight on the wellbeing of expecting mothers and their babies.

As of April 1, the department has aligned itself with the recommendations of the World Health Organisation which encourages the eight visits.

The department encourages visits at 14, 20, 26, 30, 34, 36, 38 and 40 weeks.

The benefits that come with having those eight visits include:

● More and regular blood pressure and urine testing;

● Frequent monitoring of the baby’s movements and growth measurements;

● Early detection and timely treatment of health problems; and

● Improving the quality of care to reduce the number of maternal and infant mortalities.

Karen Clark of the Bus Fare Babies Birth Centre said she welcomed the recommendations of the department.

“It is very important to have those antenatal visits. There are several benefits to both mother and baby. Severe anaemia can be treated as well.

“Traditionally, women tend to want to access healthcare when they can feel the baby move, which is usually around 20 weeks.

“That is not ideal. It is better to get all the initial blood tests early so any problems can be detected and treated early in the pregnancy,” she said.

Clark said it was critical for women to establish their HIV/Aids status early on during their pregnancies to prevent transmission to their unborn babies.

Clark emphasised that well-nourished mothers are more likely to have healthy babies and be better able to carry the babies to full term. Clinic visits also mean mothers get the calcium, iron and folic acid vitamins they need. —