This is the routine of health control of presumed healthy pregnant women without screening, in order to diagnose diseases of complicating obstetric conditions without symptoms and to provide information about lifestyle, pregnancy and delivery. It is recommended by WHO that women should start ANC at a gestational age of less than 12 weeks.
Importance of ANC • To identify and manage obstetric complications such as pre-eclampsia, tetanus toxoid immunisation, intermittent preventive treatment for malaria during pregnancy and identification and management of infections including HIV and other STIs. • It is an opportunity to promote use of skilled attendance at birth and healthy behaviour such as breastfeeding, early post-natal care and planning for optimal pregnancy spacing.