Hospital offers free antenatal class
Life Westville Hospital invites expecting parents to a free antenatal class offering guidance on pregnancy, newborn care and maternal health.
LIFE Westville Hospital is hosting a free antenatal class on Saturday, April 25 at 09:00 and expecting mothers and dads are invited to join.
Dr Jithesh Jogessar, obstetrician & gynaecologist at Life Westville Hospital who will be one of the speakers on the day, said the vital importance of antenatal visits can be thought of under a few major headings.
“The first would be monitoring of fetal health where gynaecologists and midwives are able to assess the fetal well-being by performing both serial clinical and ultrasound examinations, ensuring that the placental health, amniotic fluid levels and growth of the fetus are adequate.”
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He said ensuring maternal health is also vital where simple routine examinations such as weight, blood pressure and urine dipsticks are performed at every visit.
“Conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cardiac disease and thyroid disorders are able to be diagnosed early to avoid pregnancy complications.”
Along with ultrasound imaging, Dr Jogessar said antenatal blood tests are used in the early detection and prevention of complications for both mother and fetus, including pre-existing chronic and acquired medical conditions, as well as possible fetal abnormalities.
Dr Melissa Chettiar, a paediatrician based at the hospital, said the antenatal class is important from a paediatric perspective because it prepares parents in ways that directly improve a newborn’s health, safety, and development, not just the birth experience.
On the day of the antenatal class, Dr Chettiar said she will discuss newborn care from day one of life. She will touch on topics relating to breastfeeding, early recognition of danger signs, preparation for common neonatal conditions, creating a safer home environment, and support for early childhood development.
Booking is essential. To gain knowledge as well as the confidence you need for the exciting pregnancy journey, contact the maternity unit on 031 251 6749.
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