Why Antenatal Care Matters: Keeping Moms and Babies Safe
When you think about having a baby, you probably imagine joy, love, and hope. But did you know that what really helps moms and babies stay healthy starts long before delivery? That’s what antenatal care is all about.
What if we told you that every antenatal visit is like a shield, protecting moms and babies from danger? Let’s talk about why these visits are so important, with advice from the World Health Organization (WHO) and Dr. Deborah Fadoju, our featured doctor for January.
What Is Antenatal Care, and Why Is It Important?
Antenatal care means the regular checkups and advice pregnant women get to stay healthy and keep their babies safe. It’s not just about going to the hospital—it’s about catching problems early and preventing them from becoming serious.
Here’s something to think about: every year, about 287,000 women around the world die from problems related to pregnancy and childbirth. Many of these deaths could be stopped with the right care at the right time.
How Antenatal Visits Save Lives
Every antenatal visit is a chance to:
- Check Mom’s Health: Monitoring blood pressure during pregnancy can uncover preeclampsia early, giving doctors a chance to act before it becomes dangerous. Preeclampsia is one of the main causes of death for pregnant women.
- Catch Problems Early: Regular checkups help detect conditions like diabetes or infections early, keeping both mom and baby safe. That’s what these visits are for.
- Learn About Pregnancy: These visits provide valuable tips on nutrition, staying healthy, and preparing for a smooth delivery.
- Prepare for Birth: Antenatal visits allow moms to work with healthcare professionals to plan for a safe and stress-free delivery.
What Does WHO Recommend?
WHO says pregnant women should go for at least eight antenatal visits. Why so many? Because regular checkups make sure any problems are found and fixed quickly. During these visits, moms can get:
- Iron and folic acid tablets to prevent anemia.
- Ultrasounds to check if the baby is growing well.
- Advice on danger signs like headaches or reduced baby movements, so they know when to get help.
Dr. Deborah Fadoju’s Advice
This month, we’re proud to feature Dr. Deborah Fadoju, a resident physician who works to keep moms and babies safe. She says, “Every antenatal visit is a chance to listen to mothers and solve their worries. It’s about helping them feel confident and safe.”
Her tip? “Start antenatal care as soon as possible. Think of it as the first gift you give your baby—the gift of good health.”
How Bump and Binky Foundation Helps
At Bump and Binky Foundation, we believe every mom deserves good care. That’s why we help cover the cost of antenatal visits for moms who need support. We want to make sure no one is left behind.
Take the First Step
Did you know that starting antenatal care early can make a huge difference for you and your baby? If you’re pregnant, book your first visit today. Know someone who is? Encourage them to go.
Let’s make 2025 a year of healthy moms and strong babies. Join us in celebrating Dr. Fadoju and the importance of antenatal care. Together, we can save lives and give every baby the best start possible.
