Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation — but it can also be a time of health risks for both mother and baby. The good news is that many serious complications of pregnancy can be prevented or managed with proper antenatal care.
Why Antenatal Care Matters
Regular antenatal visits allow healthcare providers to monitor the health of mother and baby, detect and manage complications early, screen for infections including Hepatitis B, HIV, and Syphilis, provide iron and folic acid supplementation, and prepare women for a safe delivery.
Barriers to Antenatal Care in Nigeria
Despite the clear benefits, many Nigerian women do not receive adequate antenatal care. Common barriers include cost of care and transportation, long distances to health facilities, lack of awareness about the importance of ANC, and cultural beliefs and traditional practices.
How SCHF Supports Maternal Health
- Community-based antenatal education sessions
- Partnerships with primary healthcare centers
- Health talks in markets, religious centers, and community gatherings
- Training of community health workers
- Triple elimination screening integrated into our maternal health programs
A Message to Expectant Mothers
If you are pregnant, please attend antenatal care as early as possible — ideally before 12 weeks. Do not wait until you feel unwell. Many serious conditions in pregnancy have no early symptoms but can be detected through routine ANC screening.
