Getting the news that you’re pregnant is a life-changing moment—filling your heart with excitement, love, and sometimes a little nervousness. For many women in Delhi, sharing this good news with family brings celebration, blessings, and dreams for the future. It’s natural to feel a mix of happiness and curiosity about what lies ahead.
Why Antenatal Check Ups Matter
Early and regular antenatal (pregnancy) check ups are the best way to ensure a safe pregnancy for both mother and baby. These check ups allow your doctor to:
Monitor your and your baby’s health
Identify and treat health issues early
Guide you about necessary vaccinations, supplements, and scans
Offer support for emotional and physical changes
Pregnancy usually lasts about nine months and is divided into three trimesters, each with its own milestones, required tests, and common symptoms.
First Trimester (Weeks 1–13)
Care Tips:
Start prenatal vitamins with folic acid as advised by your doctor
Visit your doctor early to confirm the pregnancy and establish a care plan
Tests and Screenings:
Blood type and Rh factor
Hemoglobin/Anemia check
Blood sugar (for diabetes screening)
Thyroid test
Urine routine examination
Infections (HIV, Hepatitis B, VDRL)
Early ultrasound to confirm pregnancy
Common Challenges:
Morning sickness (nausea, vomiting)
Fatigue and mood swings
Tender or swollen breasts
Frequent urination
What Helps:
Eat small, frequent meals and stay hydrated
Rest as much as possible
Wear comfortable clothes
Second Trimester (Weeks 14–27)
Care Tips:
Symptoms like nausea decrease for many women, appetite and energy improve
Focus on a healthy routine with proper nutrition and physical activity
Tests and Screenings:
Anomaly scan (to check baby’s growth and development)
Triple or quadruple marker blood tests (for genetic screening)
Blood pressure and weight monitoring
Blood sugar repeat if required
Common Challenges:
Body aches, especially back and legs
Stretch marks start appearing
Constipation
Sometimes swelling in hands and feet
What Helps:
Gentle exercises like walking or yoga for pregnancy
High-fiber foods and plenty of water to avoid constipation
Moisturizing your skin for comfort
Third Trimester (Weeks 28–40)
Care Tips:
More frequent doctor visits for close monitoring
Check on baby’s position and growth before delivery
Tests and Screenings:
Growth and Doppler ultrasound scans
Non-stress test (NST) to check baby’s heartbeat and movements
Repeated hemoglobin and blood sugar levels
Urine checks for protein (to screen for preeclampsia)
Common Challenges:
Difficulty sleeping
Swelling of feet and ankles
Heartburn and indigestion
Practice contractions (Braxton Hicks)
Back pain
What Helps:
Use pillows for support when sleeping
Avoid salty foods to reduce swelling
Eat small, light meals to minimize heartburn
Continue gentle walking and prenatal exercises
Diet and Exercise for a Healthy Pregnancy
What to Eat:
Plenty of fresh fruits (orange, guava), green leafy vegetables, and whole grains (atta, brown rice)
Protein sources—dal, paneer, eggs, chicken, or fish (if non-vegetarian)
Dairy—milk, curd, buttermilk for calcium
Dry fruits, seeds, and nuts in moderate quantities
What to Avoid:
Outside or street food, raw seafood, excess caffeine
Sugary drinks and deep-fried snacks
Unpasteurized dairy products
Exercise:
Brisk walking daily (30 minutes is ideal)
Prenatal yoga or light stretching under professional guidance
Avoid high-impact or strenuous activities
Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise.
When to Be Concerned
While most pregnancies are smooth, watch for these warning signs and contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
Severe headache or vision problems
Vaginal bleeding or leakage of fluid
Swelling of face or hands
High fever or persistent vomiting
Severe stomach pain
Sudden decrease in baby’s movements
Timely medical help can prevent complications and keep you and your baby safe.
Ready to begin your pregnancy care journey? Book your antenatal check up today, and take the first step towards a safe, happy, and healthy pregnancy for you and your baby.