The antenatal care debate
Baldo, M.H.
Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal 7(6): 1046-1055
2001
ISSN/ISBN: 1020-3397 PMID: 15332747 Document Number: 251049
The antenatal care debate has focused on the frequency of antenatal care, its content, continuity, quality, organization, effectiveness and impact on morbidity and mortality. Established antenatal care schedules have been called into question. Randomized controlled trials comparing reduced schedules with routine antenatal care have shown similar or better outcomes for the reduced protocols. Furthermore, midwives, with or without physicians, can provide continuous maternity care comparable to obstetrician-led care. Some women disliked the new protocol, but a reduced protocol of high quality provided by competent midwives is cost-effective, spares scarce physicians and ensures women's satisfaction. It is recommended globally.