Tshwane hospitals team up to promote safe pregnancies
Expecting mothers as well as women planning on having a baby should take antenatal classes.
Three Tshwane hospitals recently collaborated to hold an awareness campaign to promote the importance of antenatal care.
Tshwane District, Odi District, and Mamelodi Regional hospitals held the campaign at the Tshwane District Hospital grounds in Pretoria Central.
Ellah Dikgale, operational manager of the Antenatal High-Risk Care Unit at the Tshwane District Hospital said it is essential that expecting mothers make their first antenatal appointment as soon as possible.
“Antenatal care ensures early detection of potential issues and interventions that contribute to a healthy outcome for both mother and child. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor the first trimester of pregnancy, as this allows for early risk assessments and the development of a personalised care plan for the mother and the baby,” Dikgale said.
Dikgale said not only should expecting mothers attend antenatal appointments but women planning on conceiving can benefit from the antenatal care healthcare facilities provide.
“Antenatal classes provide lessons on understanding pregnancy changes, foetal development, pain management, birthing options, post-delivery care, breastfeeding support, breathing and relaxation techniques for labour, and the early recognition of danger signs during pregnancy and after delivery,” Dikgale said.
Naomi Masemola, Mamelodi Regional Hospital’s Obstetrics and Gynaecology area manager, said expecting mothers and women planning to conceive must maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure their baby is not born with complications.
“Exercise during pregnancy has numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of disorders such as hypertension and diabetes. Staying active can also ease pregnancy discomfort, prepare your body for delivery, and aid in post-delivery recovery,” Masemola said.
“Eating healthy is equally important to provide your baby with the necessary nutrients for growth,” she added.
The hospitals believe that campaigns like this play a crucial role in raising awareness of the importance of early antenatal care.
By empowering women with vital information, encouraging early intervention, and promoting safe motherhood, these initiatives ultimately contribute to healthier communities.
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