According to the WHO and Indian guidelines for antenatal care, what is the minimum number of antenatal care visits recommended during pregnancy for a low-risk woman?

Question

Accepted Answer

D. 8 visits (two per trimester plus two in the third trimester). ## Recommended Antenatal Care Visits

**High-Yield:** The WHO revised guidelines (2016) and adopted by India recommend a **minimum of 8 antenatal care contacts** for pregnant women to reduce perinatal mortality and improve maternal outcomes.

### Visit Schedule

| Trimester | Number of Visits | Timing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| First | 1 | At booking (< 12 weeks) |
| Second | 2 | At 20 and 24 weeks |
| Third | 5 | At 28, 32, 36, 38, and 40 weeks |
| **Total** | **8** | **Throughout pregnancy** |

**Key Point:** This 8-contact model is based on evidence showing that fewer visits (4 visits) are associated with higher rates of preeclampsia, low birth weight, and perinatal mortality compared to the 8-contact regimen.

**Clinical Pearl:** The first visit (booking visit) is the most comprehensive, including detailed history, examination, baseline investigations, and risk stratification. Subsequent visits focus on monitoring maternal and fetal well-being.

**Mnemonic:** **ANC-8** — 8 visits is the gold standard for low-risk pregnancies in India and WHO-endorsed countries.

[cite:Park 26e Ch MCH]

Answer

A. 4 visits (one per trimester plus one at delivery)

Answer

B. 6 visits (one at booking, two in second trimester, three in third trimester)

Answer

C. 10 visits (at least two per month throughout pregnancy)

According to the WHO and Indian guidelines for antenatal care, what is the minimum number of antenatal care visits recommended during pregnancy for a low-risk woman?

Explanation

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