Antenatal Care

Antenatal care is an important part of your pregnancy journey. Dr Tshimanga will monitor you and your baby’s growth and health through each trimester to ensure a smooth birth and a healthy baby. In addition, he will be with you throughout your pregnancy journey and each trimester to ensure you and your baby are happy, healthy and comfortable.

When to schedule your first antenatal appointment

It is recommended to schedule your first antenatal appointment in the first 6-8 weeks of pregnancy. The frequency of visits will depend on how far along you are and on your individual circumstances.

Weeks 4 to 28: 1 prenatal visit a month
Weeks 28 to 36: 1 prenatal visit every 2 weeks
Weeks 36 to 40: 1 prenatal visit every week

Dr Tshimanga may recommend you attend more often if you are expecting twins, are over the age of 35, or have any pre-existing conditions that could affect your pregnancy. You may also be recommended to attend more frequently if you are having a high-risk pregnancy.

What to expect during your antenatal visits

If this is your first pregnancy and your first time seeing Dr Tshimanga, you can be expect to be asked about:

• Your personal medical history including any current medications, known allergies, and current or previous major surgeries and illnesses.
• Your family medical history and any known conditions that run in you or your partner's family.
• Your gynaecological history, including any history of sexually transmitted, any diagnosed uterine conditions and abnormalities
• Your mental health history and information about your support network
• The date of your last period to determine your due date

As well as receiving advice on the correct supplements to take, exercising safely and general pregnancy advice, your antenatal visits will also consist of:

• Determining your baby’s due date
• Monitoring the growth of your baby and ensuring they are reaching the correct milestones
• Receiving information on pregnancy and delivery
• Answering any questions you may have about pregnancy, breastfeeding, birth and caring for your baby
• Checking your vital signs to ensure you are healthy

The aim of prenatal appointments is to spot any possible complications and prevent a high-risk pregnancy.

Dr Tshimanga looks forward to accompanying you and your partner on this exciting journey of pregnancy. He is committed to providing the best possible care to ensure that you and your partner are feeling confident and reassured about the start of parenthood.