Pregnancy Care

Pregnancy care involves the medical, nutritional, and emotional support provided to women before, during, and after childbirth. It is generally divided into two main phases:

• Prenatal care – care during pregnancy
• Postnatal care – care after delivery (also called postpartum care)

Good pregnancy care ensures the health and well-being of both mother and baby, lowers the risk of complications, and prepares families for a smooth transition into parenthood.

Prenatal Care (Before and During Pregnancy)

Why Is Prenatal Care Important?

Prenatal care helps:

• Monitor the growth and development of the baby
• Detect and manage high-risk conditions early
• Guide nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes
• Educate the mother on labour, delivery, and breastfeeding
• Ensure both emotional and physical well-being throughout pregnancy

What Does Prenatal Care Include?

1. Regular Check-ups

• First visit ideally by 6–8 weeks of pregnancy
• Follow-up visits monthly, then biweekly or weekly in the final trimester
• Ultrasound scans to track fetal development
• Weight, blood pressure, and fetal heart rate monitoring

2. Blood and Urine Tests

• Check for anemia, thyroid function, blood sugar, infections, and blood group
• Urine tests for protein (preeclampsia) and infections

3. Nutritional Guidance

• Folic acid (prevents neural tube defects)
• Iron and calcium supplements
• A well-balanced diet rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins
• Avoidance of caffeine, raw foods, alcohol, and smoking

4. Screening and Risk Assessments

• Screening for gestational diabetes, Down syndrome, or birth defects
• Monitoring for preeclampsia, hypertension, or thyroid disorders

5. Vaccinations

• Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap)
• Flu vaccine during flu season
• COVID-19 vaccine if advised

6. Lifestyle and Mental Health Support

• Gentle exercises like prenatal yoga or walking
• Avoiding strenuous activities and harmful substances
• Emotional support and screening for depression or anxiety
• Education on childbirth, breastfeeding, and baby care

Warning Signs to Watch For During Pregnancy

Seek medical help if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Heavy bleeding or fluid leakage
• Sudden swelling of hands, feet, or face
• Blurred vision or headaches
• Decreased baby movements (especially in the third trimester)
• High fever or chills

Postnatal Care (After Delivery)

Why Is Postnatal Care Important?

The postnatal period (usually defined as the first six weeks after birth) is critical for recovery, bonding, and adjustment. It focuses on the physical recovery of the mother, newborn care, and emotional well-being of the family.

Key Aspects of Postnatal Care

1. Physical Recovery

• Healing from vaginal or C-section delivery
• Managing pain, bleeding (lochia), and stitches
• Monitoring for infections or complications
• Follow-up with your doctor at 6 weeks postpartum

2. Breastfeeding Support

• Early initiation within the first hour of birth
• Correct positioning and latching techniques
• Managing issues like cracked nipples or engorgement
• Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months (if possible)

3. Mental Health and Emotional Support

• Managing mood swings, anxiety, and baby blues
• Watch for signs of postpartum depression (sadness, disinterest, guilt, or fatigue)
• Encourage open conversations and seek professional help if needed

4. Newborn Care

• Feeding and sleeping routines
• Bathing, umbilical cord care, diaper hygiene
• Regular pediatric check-ups and vaccinations
• Recognizing signs of newborn illness (fever, poor feeding, jaundice)

5. Family Planning and Sexual Health

• Guidance on contraception post-delivery
• Resuming sexual activity when comfortable (usually after 6 weeks)
• Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen post-pregnancy muscles

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Pregnancy Care?

At Aster Hospitals, we offer compassionate, expert maternity care through a multidisciplinary team of fetal medicine specialists, pediatricians, lactation consultants, physiotherapists, obstetricians and gynecologists. From preconception counseling and fertility support to comprehensive prenatal monitoring, we ensure a safe and well-informed journey to motherhood. Our facilities support both natural birthing and C-section deliveries, backed by advanced NICU and postnatal care units for mother and baby. We also provide breastfeeding guidance, parenting classes, and emotional and mental health counseling to support you during and after pregnancy. At Aster, we’re with you every step of the way—from planning your pregnancy to the joy of holding your baby in your arms.