Postnatal Care
Follow-up support after birth for the mother, the baby, and the family adjusting to a new routine.
Maternal and women's health
Antenatal Care
Regular monitoring, health guidance and a listening ear through every stage of your pregnancy.
Maternal and women's health
What this service is
Antenatal care is the scheduled medical care you receive during pregnancy. It is one of the most important things you can do for your own health and for your baby, because it gives you and your practitioner a clear picture of how the pregnancy is progressing — and time to act if something needs attention.
At Ikageng Health Centre we see antenatal clients throughout pregnancy. Each visit follows a familiar pattern: your weight and blood pressure are measured, your urine is tested, your abdomen is examined and your baby’s heartbeat is listened for once it can be heard. Blood tests, scans and referrals are arranged as your pregnancy requires.
You are welcome to bring someone with you, and you are welcome to ask questions. If you are not sure whether something is normal, that is exactly the kind of thing to mention. We would far rather answer a question early than treat a problem late.
At your visit
What to expect
Every visit is a little different, but these are the steps you can expect for this service at Ikageng Health Centre.
History and records
Your details, due date, previous pregnancies and current medication are confirmed and recorded.
Weight and blood pressure
Both are measured at every visit, so that changes over the course of your pregnancy are easy to spot.
Urine test
A urine sample is checked for protein and sugar, which can point to conditions such as pre-eclampsia or gestational diabetes.
Growth and heartbeat
Your abdomen is examined, your baby’s growth is assessed and the heartbeat is listened for once it can be heard.
Tests and referrals
Any blood tests, scans or referrals that your pregnancy needs are discussed and arranged before you leave.
Clinical programme: BANC Plus. Our antenatal care is delivered using BANC Plus (Basic Antenatal Care Plus), which adds key screening and HIV services to the standard antenatal visit. PMTCT care (Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV) forms part of these visits. See our practitioner’s training and registration.
Reasons to visit
Why people come to us
If any of these sound like you, please come in — or phone us first if you would like to talk it through before you do.
- Your first antenatal visit after a positive pregnancy test.
- Routine follow-up visits through the second and third trimesters.
- Concerns such as swelling, headaches, blurred vision or reduced fetal movement.
- Advice on nutrition, medication, safe activity, travel or preparing for birth.
Before you come
- Bring your clinic card or any records you have.
- Bring a list of any medication and supplements you take.
- Bring the results of any tests done elsewhere.
- Write down your questions beforehand — it helps.
- Bring someone with you if you would like support.
All of our conversations are private. You are welcome to ask questions at any point, and you can ask to speak alone.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
If your question is not answered here, phone us on 067 575 2528 — we are happy to talk it through.
Do I need a referral to book an antenatal visit?
No. You can book directly by calling 067 575 2528 or by sending an email enquiry. We will confirm a time that suits you.
How early should I start antenatal care?
As soon as you have a positive pregnancy test. Starting early gives us a baseline to measure against and makes it easier to resolve small concerns while they are still minor.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. Many clients bring a partner, mother or friend, especially for the first visit. Please tell us if you would rather speak privately.
What if I miss a visit?
Please phone us as soon as possible so that we can reschedule. Try not to leave gaps in your antenatal care where you can avoid it, because continuity is what makes the visits useful.
Related
You might also need
Many of our services work hand in hand. These are the ones people ask about most often alongside antenatal care.
Family Planning
Non-judgemental conversations about contraception, reproductive health and the choices that suit your life.
Immunisation
Vaccines for you and your children, on schedule, protecting the whole community.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether you need this service, a routine screening, or simply have a question about your health, we are here to help.