Labour and delivery is the end of pregnancy and beginning of new life. Antenatal care plays an important role to achieve a successful labour and delivery process. Regular antenatal classes help in the physical and mental preparation of women and help them relax during those last months. Antenatal care ensures maternal foetal health wellbeing and also prepares women physically fit for labour, delivery and the postpartum period.
Regular visits to the doctor during pregnancy are aimed to ensure that the health of the pregnant women and the growing foetus is well maintained. When all stays well and proper care is taken,
the pregnancy is generally low risk.Normal labour and delivery depend on good physical and mental preparation during the antenatal period. The pregnant woman is taught good breathing exercises, relaxation techniques and muscle toning exercises.
At about 36 weeks gestation the mode of delivery should be discussed with your doctor. If the decision is taken
to proceed with normal labour delivery, then regular visits are continued till labour starts. These weekly visits ensure that all is well and thus it is important to feel good foetal movements during this time.When labour begins get ready to go to hospital. Do not take heavy meal as there is risk of vomiting when pains get strong and this will get worse if your stomach is full. Liquids are the best form of intake from now on and they are good for rehydration. You will urinate frequently, this is normal. Take as much as rest possible so that you can cope with active labour. Preferably lie down on your left side. When awake it is good to move around. When contractions get stronger and frequent it will be difficult to cope and you will have to go to hospital.
