The journey to motherhood is a remarkable and transformative experience, filled with anticipation, joy, and excitement. Central to ensuring a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery are antenatal checkups—routine examinations conducted by healthcare professionals to monitor the well-being of both mother and baby.

In the hands of a skilled and experienced obstetrician like Dr Poonam Goyal, antenatal checkups transcend routine examinations—they become a journey of nurturing, empowerment, and hope. Dr Poonam Goyal stands as the silver lining of expertise and compassion in the realm of gynaecology and obstetrics, with over 36 years of dedicated service to women's health. Specializing in infertility treatment and assisted reproductive technology, Dr Goyal's unwavering commitment extends to providing comprehensive antenatal care, ensuring the well-being of both mother and child throughout the pregnancy journey.

Understanding Antenatal Checkups

Antenatal checkups, also known as prenatal or pregnancy checkups, are a series of medical appointments scheduled throughout pregnancy to monitor the health and development of the expectant mother and her unborn child.

Why Antenatal Checkups are Needed

Antenatal checkups play a crucial role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and promoting the well-being of both mother and baby. Some key reasons why these checkups are needed include:

• Early Detection and Management of Complications: Antenatal checkups allow healthcare providers to monitor the progress of the pregnancy and detect any potential complications, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or fetal abnormalities, early on. Early detection enables timely intervention and management, reducing the risk of adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.
• Monitoring Fetal Growth and Development: Regular antenatal checkups include ultrasound scans and other assessments to monitor the growth and development of the fetus. These evaluations help ensure that the baby is growing appropriately and can detect any issues that may require further investigation or intervention.
• Providing Essential Care and Support: Antenatal checkups offer pregnant women essential care, guidance, and support throughout their pregnancy journey. Healthcare providers address any concerns or questions the expectant mother may have, offer advice on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices, and provide emotional support to help alleviate anxiety and stress.

Antenatal Checkups at Various Stages of Pregnancy

Antenatal checkups are typically scheduled at regular intervals throughout pregnancy, with the frequency increasing as the pregnancy progresses. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends the following schedule for antenatal checkups:

• First Trimester (0-13 weeks): During the first trimester, antenatal checkups focus on confirming the pregnancy, assessing the mother's overall health, and estimating the due date. These checkups may include a physical examination, ultrasound scan, blood tests, and discussions about prenatal care.
• Second Trimester (14-26 weeks): Antenatal checkups in the second trimester involve monitoring fetal growth and development, screening for genetic abnormalities, and addressing any pregnancy-related symptoms or concerns. Additional tests, such as the anatomy scan, may be performed to assess the baby's organs and anatomy.
• Third Trimester (27 weeks to delivery): In the third trimester, antenatal checkups become more frequent, typically occurring every 2-4 weeks. These appointments focus on monitoring fetal growth and movement, assessing maternal well-being, and preparing for labour and delivery. Towards the end of pregnancy, antenatal checkups may include tests to assess fetal position, amniotic fluid levels, and signs of labour.

Dr. Poonam Goyal's Approach

With her vast experience and expertise in gynaecology and obstetrics, Dr Poonam Goyal offers a comprehensive approach to antenatal care. Her antenatal checkups are meticulously designed to encompass various aspects of maternal and fetal health, including physical examinations, ultrasound scans, and laboratory tests.

Comprehensive Physical Examinations

During antenatal checkups, Dr. Goyal conducts thorough physical examinations to assess the mother's overall health and monitor the progress of the pregnancy. Vital signs such as blood pressure, weight, and fetal heart rate are carefully monitored to identify any signs of potential complications.

Advanced Ultrasound Scans

Ultrasound scans are an integral part of antenatal care, providing valuable insights into the growth and development of the fetus. Dr Poonam Goyal utilizes state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to perform detailed scans, ensuring optimal fetal growth and detecting any abnormalities at the earliest stages.

Laboratory Tests and Screenings

Antenatal checkups also involve various laboratory tests and screenings to evaluate the mother's health and assess any potential risks to the pregnancy. These may include blood tests, urine tests, genetic screenings, and screening for gestational diabetes and other conditions.

Personalized Care and Guidance

What sets Dr. Poonam Goyal apart is her personalized approach to antenatal care. She takes the time to listen to her patients' concerns, address their questions, and provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the pregnancy journey. Her compassionate demeanour and unwavering dedication ensure that expectant mothers feel empowered and reassured every step of the way.