Pre and postnatal care refer to the healthcare and wellness support provided to women during pregnancy (prenatal) and after childbirth (postnatal) to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and baby.

It is never too late to start! Most experts recommend that you start some kind of prenatal wellness care within the first six to twelve weeks of pregnancy. You can talk to your doctor to draw up a prenatal care plan. The sooner you start prenatal care, the more you can reduce the risk of pregnancy complications.

Medical professionals define the postpartum period as the first six weeks after delivery. However, postnatal care can extend well beyond that six-week period. Many pregnant people receive postnatal care for several months after childbirth. Depending on the presence of pregnancy complications, postnatal care might be required years after the fact. Your postpartum physiotherapy appointment can be 4-6 weeks post-birth.

Yes, exercising during pregnancy is safe and does not increase the risk of miscarriage or other pregnancy complications. Several studies indicate that regular mild to moderate exercise during pregnancy reduces the risk of preterm birth and other pregnancy complications. Regular exercise also helps your body manage the stress of pregnancy. Speak to your medical doctor before starting a new exercise routine or trying new exercise.

A typical prenatal checkup includes measuring blood pressure, weight, and fetal growth, as well as discussing symptoms, dietary needs, and lifestyle habits.

Signs include excessive bleeding, fever, severe pain, or symptoms of postpartum depression. Seek medical attention if you experience these.