Bringing a new life into the world is a joyous occasion that every expecting mother dreams would go smoothly, and everyone will be healthy. But childbirth requires careful preparation, especially in Nigeria. With diverse cultures, traditions, and healthcare systems, expectant mothers face unique challenges that necessitate thoughtful planning. This blog post aims to shed light on the crucial aspects of preparing for childbirth in Nigeria. Emphasising on the significance of having a birth plan for a safe and smooth delivery.
In Nigeria basic maternal and infant care is not a given and can vary, so understanding the essentials becomes crucial. Your journey to motherhood involves not only the physical aspects of childbirth but also navigating the healthcare system in Nigeria, cultural norms, and family expectations.
Navigating Pregnancy in Nigeria: Finding a Healthcare Provider
The significance of a qualified healthcare provider cannot be overstated. Choosing the right professional to guide you through your pregnancy journey is crucial for a safe and positive birthing experience.
In Nigeria, the options of healthcare provider include obstetrician, midwife, even general practitioners. The decision often depends on the options available at your chosen health facility, the level of care you require, and your personal preferences.
Your healthcare provider plays a crucial role throughout your pregnancy journey. Conducting necessary tests and scans and offering valuable advice on exercise and nutrition during pregnancy. Clear communication and trust between you and your healthcare provider creates a supportive environment for addressing any uncertainties or anxiety you may have and enhances your overall quality of care.
Selecting the right healthcare provider is a pivotal step in preparing for childbirth in Nigeria. Take time to explore your options, seek recommendations, and prioritize qualifications and experience.
Antenatal Care in Nigeria
Antenatal care also called prenatal care, pregnancy care, or maternity care is the care you get from healthcare professionals during your pregnancy.
The doctor or midwife providing your maternity care will:
- Check the health of you and your baby.
- Check for anemia and pre-eclampsia by taking routine tests.
- Monitor your blood pressure and weight gain.
- Measure your womb (uterus) to check your baby’s growth.
- Listen to your baby’s heartbeat.
- Give you useful information to help you have a healthy pregnancy, including advice on exercise and eating healthy.
- Discuss your options and choices for your care during pregnancy, labour, and delivery.
- Answer any questions you may have.
In Nigeria, you will be offered:
- 2 pregnancy ultrasound scans, the first ideally in your first trimester to confirm your due date and the second at 18 to 22 weeks to confirm normal fetal anatomy.
- Blood tests to check for HIV, hepatitis B, syphilis.
- Urine tests to check for sugar, protein, ketones, bacteria in your urine.
You may also be offered antenatal classes to teach you how to help yourself during labor and delivery, how to care for your baby including feeding, and how to care for your health after childbirth in Nigeria.
These classes provide an environment where expectant parents can express concerns and build a network with others sharing the same journey.
If you’re having an uncomplicated pregnancy, expect to have 8 or 9 antenatal appointments.
Antenatal care and education form the bedrock of a healthy pregnancy.
Creating Your Birth Plan
A birth plan is a written document that lets your healthcare providers know your preferences for labour and delivery. It helps you get informed about your options and organised for the big day. It covers every aspect of your labour, delivery, and recovery. As well as newborn care after delivery.
A birth plan can serve 2 vital purposes:
- It helps you learn more about available options during childbirth. The birth plan serves as a guide for you to ask questions of your doctor, midwife, or even the health facility. You learn how pregnant women in their care are treated. If their responses are not what you are hoping for, it gives you the opportunity to look for a different healthcare provider or facility that better aligns with your preferences.
- The birth plan creates a line of communication between you and your healthcare provider and health facility. This is important because it helps you lay out your wishes on how you want things to go in the event that the doctor see during pregnancy is unavailable during your labor and delivery.
In Nigeria, where cultural diversity is rich, your birth plan becomes a crucial bridge to ensure your birthing experience aligns with your values, preferences, and traditions.
Components of A Birth Plan
The birth plan typically includes essential elements like your preferred birth location, pain management options, and your desired support persons to be present during delivery.
In Nigeria, where familial bonds are strong, specifying who plays a role in the birthing process can be vital.
Free birth plan template
Tips for Creating a Birth Plan
- A good time to draft your birth plan maybe towards the end of your second trimester. At this time, you have a clear picture on how your pregnancy is progressing and how your baby is developing. This is important so you know what birthing options are possible for you, given your particular pregnancy situation.
- Creating a birth plan in Nigeria involves a delicate balance between tradition and modern healthcare practices.
- Expecting mothers should approach it with flexibility, acknowledging that labour and delivery can be unpredictable and unforeseen circumstances may arise.
- Open communication with healthcare providers ensures that your birth preferences align with healthcare system and cultural considerations.
Preparing for Childbirth in Nigeria: Conclusion
In Nigeria, where maternal mortality rate is high, properly preparing for childbirth becomes even more crucial. Proper antenatal care and creating a birth plan are key steps to ensure a smooth labour and safe delivery.
Preparing for childbirth in Nigeria helps you understand your options, build your confidence, make informed decisions about your birthing experience, and advocate for yourself to ensure you receive proper medical care during childbirth.
As parents prepare for the incredible journey of childbirth in Nigeria, a thoughtfully crafted birth plan can be a guiding light for navigating the cultural and healthcare landscapes as you welcome your newest family member.
