Why Antenatal Care Matters — First Trimester to Delivery
Antenatal care is the cornerstone of a healthy pregnancy, ensuring both mother and baby thrive from conception through to delivery. Early and consistent monitoring helps identify and manage potential risks before they become serious concerns. The first trimester focuses on confirming viability, establishing accurate dating, and screening for genetic conditions. As you progress into the second trimester, attention shifts to fetal anatomy, growth tracking, and identifying gestational conditions such as diabetes. The third trimester is about preparing for birth, monitoring fetal well-being, and planning the delivery. At every stage, Dr. Aparna Kalekar provides evidence-based guidance, addressing physical changes, emotional well-being, and nutritional needs to ensure a safe and positive pregnancy experience.
Your Antenatal Visit Schedule at Star Ortho
We follow a structured, evidence-based antenatal visit schedule in line with Indian obstetric protocols to ensure optimal care. For uncomplicated pregnancies, visits are scheduled monthly until 28 weeks. Between 28 and 36 weeks, visits increase to fortnightly (every two weeks). From 36 weeks onwards, you will be seen weekly until delivery. During these visits, we monitor your blood pressure, weight, and the baby's growth. We also interpret scan results, review blood work, and discuss any symptoms you may be experiencing. This schedule ensures that any deviations from normal are promptly addressed, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.
Key Investigations During Pregnancy
Comprehensive screening is vital for anticipating and preventing complications. Standard investigations include determining your blood group and Rh factor, checking Haemoglobin (Hb) levels to prevent anaemia, and screening for blood sugar abnormalities (GCT) to detect gestational diabetes. We also advise on crucial scans: the double marker and NT scan for chromosomal screening, the anomaly scan to check fetal structure, and third-trimester growth scans. In some cases, we screen for infections like Group B strep or perform advanced genetic testing. These investigations are explained simply and clearly, ensuring you understand their purpose and results without unnecessary anxiety.
Nutrition & Lifestyle During Pregnancy
Proper nutrition and a balanced lifestyle directly impact your baby's development and your own stamina. We provide culturally relevant dietary guidance suited for Indian women, emphasizing iron, folic acid, and calcium-rich foods. We discuss which foods to avoid (such as raw sprouts, unpasteurised milk, and certain seafood) and how to manage cravings and aversions. Hydration, adequate sleep, and managing work-related stress are also key focus areas. For working women, we offer practical advice on posture, breaks, and managing fatigue. Moderate exercise, tailored to your fitness level, is encouraged to maintain muscle tone and prepare your body for labor.
Vaccinations During Pregnancy
Maternal vaccination is a crucial step in protecting both you and your newborn from preventable infectious diseases. Following current Indian guidelines, we recommend the Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) vaccine, typically administered between 27 and 36 weeks, which passes protective antibodies to the baby against whooping cough. The seasonal flu vaccine is also highly recommended to prevent severe respiratory illness during pregnancy. We will review your vaccination history and schedule these immunizations appropriately, ensuring maximum protection during the vulnerable early months of your baby's life.
Birth Planning & Delivery Choices
Empowering you to make informed decisions about your delivery is a priority at Star Ortho & Women Care. We actively involve you in birth planning, discussing the benefits and indications for both natural (vaginal) delivery and caesarean section. We explore your birthing preferences, pain relief options (such as epidurals), and potential interventions. While our clinic provides comprehensive outpatient antenatal care, we coordinate seamlessly with leading maternity hospitals in Wakad and surrounding areas for the actual delivery. We ensure a smooth hospital handoff, providing the receiving team with a complete and meticulously documented clinical history to ensure a safe birthing experience.


