NEWS – Karnataka Health Department Launches Free Monthly Antenatal Check-up Camps under name ‘Maatrutva Suraksha Abhiyaan’

HIGHLIGHTS

• Several maternal deaths reported in Karnataka.
• Response: Launch of a State-wide antenatal care campaign.

Key Features:

• Free Health Check-up Camps: Conducted twice a month (9th and 24th) at State-run health facilities.
• Launch Event: Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao to launch the campaign at a large health camp for pregnant women in Raichur.
• Focus: Promoting maternal safety and well-being.
• Target Group: All pregnant women in Karnataka.

Objectives and Measures:

• Quality Healthcare: Providing quality healthcare services, especially for high-risk pregnancies.
• Addressing Gaps: Systematic measures to address gaps in maternal health services (especially after the Ballari maternal deaths).
• Awareness on Nutrition and Supplements: Creating awareness about good nutrition and the importance of folic acid supplementation.
• Regular Screening: Monitoring blood pressure, weight gain, and conducting blood tests for early detection of complications.
• Dedicated Follow-up: Additional consultations beyond the standard antenatal care schedule for high-risk pregnancies.
• Mandatory Tests and Supplements:
  • Oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) for gestational diabetes.
  • Routine administration of folic acid and calcium supplements.
  • Immunisation and infection control, including two doses of tetanus toxoid (TT) vaccines.
• Awareness for Families: Educating families on recognizing danger signs during pregnancy and accessing emergency care.