## RCH Programme: Antenatal Care Schedule **Key Point:** The RCH programme recommends a minimum of 4 ANC visits during pregnancy, with a specific schedule designed to optimize maternal and fetal monitoring. ### Recommended ANC Visit Schedule | Trimester | Timing | Frequency | |-----------|--------|----------| | First | Before 12 weeks | 1 visit | | Second | 12–27 weeks | 1 visit | | Third (early) | 28–35 weeks | Every 2 weeks | | Third (late) | 36 weeks onwards | Every week | **High-Yield:** The intensification of ANC visits in the third trimester (especially after 36 weeks) allows for: - Detection of preeclampsia and gestational hypertension - Assessment of fetal growth and position - Identification of complications such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or oligohydramnios - Preparation for labour and delivery **Clinical Pearl:** This schedule is part of the WHO-endorsed focused ANC model, which emphasizes quality over quantity of visits while ensuring critical assessments occur at high-risk periods. **Mnemonic:** **4-1-1-1 Rule** — 4 total visits: 1 in first trimester, 1 in second trimester, 1–2 in early third trimester (every 2 weeks), then weekly after 36 weeks.
Sign up free to access AI-powered MCQ practice with detailed explanations and adaptive learning.