Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy: Antenatal Care at ClinicRW

Why Antenatal Care Saves Lives

Rwanda has made extraordinary progress in reducing maternal and infant mortality, and regular antenatal care (ANC) is a central reason why. ANC visits allow doctors to detect and treat complications early - conditions like gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and anaemia that can be dangerous if missed.

WHO recommends at least 8 antenatal contacts during pregnancy. In Rwanda, the Ministry of Health aligns with this guidance. Starting care early - ideally in the first trimester - gives the best outcomes.

What Happens at Each Visit

• First visit (before 12 weeks): Blood group and Rhesus factor, full blood count, HIV test, syphilis screening, urine analysis, blood pressure, weight, ultrasound to confirm dates
• 16–20 weeks: Blood pressure, weight, foetal heartbeat, urine, anaemia screen
• 24–28 weeks: Glucose challenge test for gestational diabetes, foetal growth assessment
• 28–36 weeks: Position of baby, group B Streptococcus screening, birth plan discussion
• 36–40 weeks: Cervical check, foetal presentation, delivery planning

Nutrition During Pregnancy

A balanced diet is essential. Key nutrients include:

• Folic acid (400–800 µg/day) - start before conception if possible to prevent neural tube defects
• Iron - found in beans, meat, dark leafy greens; a supplement may be prescribed
• Calcium - dairy products, sardines, leafy greens
• Protein - eggs, fish, legumes, poultry
• Plenty of water - at least 2 litres per day

Warning Signs to Watch For

Go to the clinic immediately if you notice:

• Heavy vaginal bleeding
• Severe headache or visual changes
• Sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet
• Reduced or absent foetal movements after 28 weeks
• High fever
• Burning on urination

Booking Your First Appointment

Our Obstetrics & Gynecology department at ClinicRW offers comprehensive antenatal care from your first positive test through to delivery planning. We recommend booking as soon as you suspect or confirm a pregnancy so we can establish your baseline health and give you a personalised care plan.