Expanded prenatal check-ups now cover 96% of pregnancies

Expectant mothers in Taiwan can benefit from a range of government-funded prenatal examinations, designed to ensure the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby. These checkups, offered by a state-sponsored health organization, include four crucial tests: blood type and Rh factor testing, anemia screening, urine analysis, and gestational diabetes screening.

The prenatal care schedule is well-structured, with three ultrasound scans provided at various stages of pregnancy. The first scan takes place between eight and 16 weeks, followed by another near the 20th week, and a final one after the 32nd week. These scans serve to create images of the fetus for the parents to see and allow doctors to monitor its growth.

The coverage rate for these government-funded checkups reached an impressive 96 percent last year, making it accessible to a large number of expectant mothers. For more information, the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) recommends visiting their dedicated website at https://mammy.hpa.gov.tw.

Upon confirmation of pregnancy by a doctor, the hospital or clinic will provide the expectant mother with a "Maternal Health Booklet." This booklet serves as a crucial tool, as it outlines the recommended schedule for the 14 visits included in the expanded checkup programme, which was implemented in July 2021.

Each visit includes routine prenatal checkup items such as basic consultations, physical exams, and lab tests. Additionally, the checkups include examinations for anemia, gestational diabetes, and group B streptococcus (GBS) screening.

Anemia, a condition that affects approximately 10 to 20 percent of expectant mothers in the early stages of pregnancy, can increase risks for the mother and the baby, such as preterm delivery, low birth weight, and developmental problems in the infant. If detected, anemia can be managed with iron supplements and dietary changes.

Gestational diabetes, present in nearly 3 percent of pregnancies, can be controlled with diet, exercise, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. If an expectant mother tests positive for GBS, the doctor may assess whether a preventive antibiotic should be administered before giving birth to prevent potential complications.

It's important to note that the number of GBS colonizations in expectant mothers is nearly 20 percent. Regular screening and prompt treatment can help manage this condition effectively.

The majority of inquiries about the government-funded prenatal checkups are about the included examinations and how to apply for the checkup subsidy. Approximately 70 percent of these inquiries were from expectant mothers, while about 20 percent were from expectant fathers and about 10 percent were from other family members.

In summary, the government-funded prenatal checkups in Taiwan provide comprehensive care for expectant mothers, ensuring a healthy pregnancy and delivery for both mother and baby. Expectant mothers are encouraged to make use of these services and to stay informed by visiting the HPA's dedicated website.