What is the primary purpose of prenatal care?

The primary purpose of prenatal care is to ensure the health of both the mother and fetus. This aspect is critical as prenatal care encompasses regular check-ups, screenings, and health assessments that help identify any potential risks or complications early in the pregnancy.

During these visits, healthcare providers monitor the mother's health, growth of the fetus, and address any health issues that might arise, allowing for timely interventions that can significantly impact outcomes. This proactive approach is essential to support a healthy pregnancy, ensuring that both the mother and the developing fetus are in optimal health.

While preparing the mother for childbirth, managing labor pain, and promoting breastfeeding are important components of maternal care, they are secondary to the overarching goal of maintaining health throughout the pregnancy. Prenatal care lays the groundwork for the overall well-being of both mother and child, making it a crucial focus of obstetric practice.