Dr. Eldean Eudelle, known as Dr. E, launched his Antenatal Care Tour on Thursday, with the Freetown Community Centre as the first stop. The audience was made up of women from the Freetown women’s group.
Dr. E was accompanied by Sister Annemarie Brown-Isaac, departmental manager at Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC). They presented “Antenatal Care and Its Vital Role,” built around the theme of protecting mothers, supporting babies and building healthier futures.
Start early, stay connected
Dr. E told the women that antenatal care protects two lives. “Every visit is an opportunity to protect a mother and her baby,” he said. “When we see mothers early and regularly, we can pick up problems before they become emergencies.”
He encouraged women to book their first visit as soon as they know they are pregnant, ideally before 12 weeks. The World Health Organization recommends at least eight antenatal contacts, and the presentation described this as a minimum, not a limit. Women with higher-risk pregnancies may need more frequent reviews.
What to expect
A typical first visit includes a review of medical, obstetric, medication and family history, blood pressure and weight checks, confirmation of dates, and an ultrasound and baseline tests where appropriate.
Routine screening covers blood group and Rh status, blood count and urine tests, infections such as HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B, and gestational diabetes. Antenatal care can also help detect hypertensive disorders such as preeclampsia, anaemia, diabetes in pregnancy, and infections.
Healthy habits and prevention
The presentation recommended varied meals with vegetables, fruit, protein and iron-rich foods, folic acid and iron supplements as advised locally, hydration, rest and appropriate physical activity. It advised avoiding alcohol, tobacco and recreational drugs, and reviewing all medications with a provider. Vaccinations, emotional wellbeing and delivery planning were also covered.
Know the danger signs
Dr. E stressed that certain symptoms need urgent assessment and should not wait for the next appointment:
Vaginal bleeding or leaking fluid
Severe headache, blurred vision or swelling with concerning symptoms
Severe abdominal pain, seizures, fainting or breathlessness
Fever or signs of serious infection
Reduced baby movements once they are established
“If something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait,” he said. “Go and be assessed.”
A community effort
Sister Brown-Isaac emphasised that quality care is a team effort. “Our goal at SLBMC is to walk with every mother from early pregnancy through delivery and beyond,” she said. “Taking this information into the community helps women feel confident and informed about their care.”
Dr. E noted that families and communities play a key role, from helping with transport and childcare to countering myths with reliable health information. His take-home message: antenatal care should be early, regular, informed and supported.
The tour continues to other communities. Next stop Liberta Village.
Source: Antigua News Room Dr. E Kicks Off Antenatal Care Tour at Freetown Community Centre.