Revisiting Antenatal Care

Antenatal care is often seen as a routine checklist of scans and supplements, but what if the true foundation of a healthy pregnancy begins far earlier than we act? Revisiting Antenatal Care redefines conventional prenatal care by shining a spotlight on the most overlooked yet critical period-the preconceptional and the first trimester. First trimester is the period of organogenesis (organ formation), and if any insult occurs in this phase, there is likelihood of teratogenesis (birth defects) in the developing fetus. Backed by scientific evidence and enriched with clinical insights, this book challenges outdated approaches and brings a new lens to pregnancy care, advocating for timely education, personalized screenings, and early emotional and physical support.Inside This Book, You Will Find: ü The evolution of antenatal care and why it's time for a shiftü Importance of preconception and first-trimester counselingü How to identify high-risk pregnancies early using modern diagnosticsü The role of nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle in the first 12 weeksü Addressing mental health, emotional preparedness, and support systemsü Screening tools for gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and chromosomal abnormalitiesü Myths and truths around food, medicines, and habits during pregnancyü How clinicians can better communicate with and empower expectant mothersü Summary takeaways and practical tips for both practitioners and pregnant women.