Having a baby is a beautiful, life-changing, and equally exciting experience for mothers-to-be. Especially for first-time Filipina moms, the next nine months or so of their lives is usually described as one of their most life-changing experiences, both physically and emotionally.
Dr. Maria Cristina Fernandez, a Filipino Specialist OB-Gynecologist at Prime Medical Center Deira, stressed that health of both the mother and child is of utmost importance during this time and that going through the process of antenatal care would ensure that both the baby and the mom would feel at ease through the course of nine months.
“Antenatal care is when you get regular checkups from a doctor throughout your pregnancy. It helps keep you and your future baby healthy. We will be your guide towards the next nine months as you open a new, exciting chapter in your life of being a mom,” shares Dr. Fernandez.
Why is antenatal care important?
Getting regular antenatal care improves the chances of a healthy pregnancy, according to Dr. Geanie Castillo Dimaculangan, a Filipino Specialist OB-Gynecologist at Prime Medical Center Deira. Regular checkups are also a great time to learn how to ease any discomfort the mom might be having.
“We will monitor your future baby’s development and do routine testing to help find and prevent possible problems. Moms are also encouraged to ask questions about their pregnancy for us to give ample guidance, especially for first timers,” said Dr. Dimaculangan.
What happens during the first appointment?
The first antenatal care visit is usually the longest one. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, the other parent’s medical history and your family’s medical history. A complete check-up will be done, usually with a physical exam, blood and urine tests and ultrasound to make sure you’re healthy.
How does antenatal care benefit the mother and the unborn baby?
Promotes good health for moms. By following a healthy, safe diet; getting regular exercise as advised by the health care provider; and avoiding exposure to potentially harmful substances such as lead and radiation, these can help reduce the risk of problems during pregnancy thus promoting good fetal health development.
Safe medical prescriptions. It ensures that the medicines women take are safe and are advised not to take certain medications including some acne treatments and dietary and herbal supplements during pregnancy because they can harm the fetus.
Reduces risk for complications. By informing women about the effects of tobacco smoke and alcohol use during pregnancy, antenatal care reduces the fetus’s and infant’s risk for complications. It has been shown to increase the risk for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
Both Dr. Maria Cristina Fernandez and Dr. Geanie Castiilo Dimaculangan are Filipino Senior OB-Gynecologists with more than 10 years of experience in their respective fields. Both are available for consult in Prime Medical Center Deira.
