1.: Regular check-ups help track the growth and development of the fetus, ensuring it is progressing normally.
1. **Ultrasound**:
- **First Trimester Ultrasound**: Confirms pregnancy, estimates gestational age, and checks for the presence of multiple fetuses.
- **Second Trimester Ultrasound (Anatomy Scan)**: Typically performed between 18-22 weeks to check the baby's anatomy, including the brain, spine, heart, kidneys, and limbs.
- **Third Trimester Ultrasound**: Assesses fetal growth, amniotic fluid levels, and position of the fetus.
2. **Prenatal Screening Tests**:
- **First Trimester Screening**: Combines a blood test and an ultrasound (nuchal translucency screening) to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.
- **Second Trimester Screening (Quad Screen)**: Measures levels of four substances in the mother's blood to evaluate the risk of neural tube defects and chromosomal abnormalities.
- **Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)**: Analyzes fetal DNA in the mother's blood to assess the risk of certain genetic disorders.
3. **Diagnostic Tests**:
- **Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)**: Performed between 10-13 weeks to test for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders.
- **Amniocentesis**: Typically performed between 15-20 weeks to diagnose chromosomal abnormalities, neural tube defects, and genetic disorders.
4. **Routine Prenatal Visits**:
- **Maternal Health Monitoring**: Regular check-ups to monitor the mother's blood pressure, weight, and overall health.
- **Fetal Heart Rate Monitoring**: Checking the baby's heartbeat using a Doppler device.
- **Fundal Height Measurement**: Measuring the distance from the pubic bone to the top of the uterus to assess fetal growth.
5. **Fetal Movement Monitoring**:
- **Kick Counts**: Mothers are often advised to track the baby's movements, especially in the third trimester, to ensure the baby is active and healthy.
6. **Biophysical Profile (BPP)**:
- Combines an ultrasound and a non-stress test to evaluate fetal well-being, including fetal movements, breathing, muscle tone, heart rate, and amniotic fluid volume.
7. **Doppler Flow Studies**:
- Measures blood flow in the umbilical artery and other fetal blood vessels to assess placental function and fetal health.
Regular prenatal care is essential for monitoring fetal development and addressing any concerns promptly.
2. **Health of the Pregnant Person**: Monitoring the health of the pregnant person, including blood pressure, weight, and overall physical and emotional well-being.
3. **Screening for Complications**: Early detection of potential complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and infections, allowing for timely interventions.
4. **Nutritional Guidance**: Providing advice on proper nutrition and supplements (like folic acid) to support the health of both the pregnant person and the fetus.
5. **Education**: Offering information on what to expect during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, as well as tips for newborn care.
6. **Vaccinations and Medications**: Ensuring necessary vaccinations are up to date and managing any medications that are safe to take during pregnancy.
7. **Emotional Support**: Providing support and resources for mental health, addressing any anxiety or depression that may arise during pregnancy.
Ensuring a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
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recommendations on managing a healthy lifestyle and the provision of medical information such as maternal physiological changes in pregnancy, biological changes, and prenatal nutrition including prenatal vitamins, which prevents potential health problems throughout the course of the pregnancy.
The availability of routine prenatal care, including prenatal screening and diagnosis, has played a part in reducing the frequency of maternal death, miscarriages, birth defects, low birth weight, neonatal infections and other preventable health problems.
Monthly visits during the first two trimesters (from the 1st week to the 28th week)
fortnightly visits from the 28th week to the 36th week of pregnancy
weekly visits after 36th week to the delivery, from the 38th week to the 42nd week
Assessment of parental needs and family dynamics