Prenatal counseling is a crucial aspect of ensuring a healthy pregnancy and preparing for childbirth. Dr Aditi Godbole, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist in Thane offers valuable insights into the various stages and importance of prenatal care.
What is Prenatal Counseling?
Prenatal counseling refers to the guidance and support provided to expectant parents before and during pregnancy. Ideally, prenatal counseling begins with preconception counseling, which addresses all the important aspects to consider before becoming pregnant. Once a pregnancy test comes back positive and the beta HCG levels confirm pregnancy, actual prenatal counseling and consultations begin.
The Stages of Pregnancy
Dr. Godbole explains that pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, each with its own set of important milestones and tests:
First Trimester (Conception to 12 Weeks)
When a pregnancy test is positive, the first visit to the gynecologist is crucial. During this visit, several blood tests are conducted to ensure the health of both the mother and the developing baby. These tests include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Urine routine
- Thyroid function tests
- Basic diabetic profile (HbA1c, fasting and postprandial sugars)
- Hemoglobin electrophoresis
- Blood group determination
Additionally, any pre-existing medical conditions should be discussed with the gynecologist to adjust medications accordingly.
One of the most important tests during the first trimester is the viability scan, performed around 6 to 7 weeks of gestation. This scan checks whether the baby has developed a heartbeat and can survive.
Second Trimester (12 Weeks to 28 Weeks)
The second trimester begins with the NT (Nuchal Translucency) scan, conducted between 11.5 and 13.5 weeks. This scan, combined with blood tests such as the double marker test, screens for genetic abnormalities in the baby.
Another key milestone is the anomaly scan, usually performed between 18 and 20 weeks of gestation. This detailed scan ensures that all parts of the baby’s body are developing properly.
During the second trimester, the gynecologist will also test for gestational diabetes using tests like the GCT (Glucose Challenge Test) or GTT (Glucose Tolerance Test). Thyroid function and CBC tests are repeated to monitor the mother’s health.
For Rh-negative mothers, an ICT (Indirect Coombs Test) is conducted, and if necessary, an anti-D injection is administered to prevent complications.
Third Trimester (28 Weeks to Delivery)
In the third trimester, the focus is on monitoring the baby’s growth and preparing for delivery. Regular visits every 15 days are recommended. Tests conducted during this period include:
- Growth scan to check the baby’s development
- Color Doppler scan to assess blood flow and placental function
The gynecologist will also ensure that the baby’s head is positioned correctly for a normal delivery and that the amniotic fluid levels are adequate. Iron, calcium, and folic acid supplements are continued, and viral markers and CBC tests are repeated.
Preparing for Delivery
As the pregnancy approaches term, the gynecologist will assess the mother’s pelvis to determine if it is suitable for a normal delivery. Detailed instructions regarding the signs of labor, such as labor pain and water breaking, are provided to prepare the expectant mother for the delivery process.
Importance of Regular Prenatal Visits
Dr. Godbole emphasizes the importance of never missing a prenatal visit. Regular consultations allow the gynecologist to monitor the pregnancy closely, address any concerns, and provide the necessary guidance for a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Expectant mothers are encouraged to ask any questions they may have, no matter how trivial they may seem, rather than relying on information from the internet.
Conclusion
Prenatal counseling is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy. From preconception to delivery, it ensures that both the mother and the baby receive the best possible care. Dr. Aditi Omkar Godbole, with her expertise and compassionate approach, helps expectant parents navigate the journey of pregnancy with confidence and peace of mind.
For more information and personalized care, schedule a consultation with Dr. Aditi Godbole and take the first step towards a healthy pregnancy.
Contact Information & Practice Locations:
Connect at: 77158 88289
Dr Aditi practices at:
Jeevan Doctors Planet
Address: Ground Floor, Gaala No. 15, Sai Tirth Towers, Station Rd, Sidharth Nagar, Kopri, Thane East, Thane, Maharashtra 400603
Directions: Dr.Aditi Godbole – Best Gynecologist Thane | Maternity Hospital | Lady Doctor | Pregnancy | Nomal Delivery | Abortion Clinic
Currae Speciality Hospital
Address: Ground floor, Highstreet Highland Corporate Centre, Junction, near Kapurbawadi, Sainath Nagar, Majiwada, Thane, Maharashtra 400607
Directions: Dr. Aditi Godbole | Obstetrician-Gynecologist in Thane | Pregnancy Care | All Gynecological & Fertility Services
Janani Health Care and Polyclinic
Address: Shop no. 4, Rajkripa CHS, Kajuwadi Cir Rd, near Sai Baba Temple, Louis Wadi, Thane West, Thane – 400604
Directions: Dr. Aditi Godbole
Borneo Mother And Child Care Center
Address: Larkins 315, Namdeo Wadi Marg, Banacha Pada, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West, Thane, Maharashtra 400602
Directions: 19° 11′ 49.0513″ N 72° 57′ 52.5654″ E
Alpha Speciality Clinic
Address: Shop No-7, Lokmanya Society, Ram Maruti Road, Near ICICI Bank, Naupada, Thane West, 400601
Directions: Lady Gynaecologist In Thane | Dr Aditi Godbole | Alpha Speciality Clinic
