Ideal number of antenatal visits :
**Core Concept**
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of 8 antenatal visits to ensure proper prenatal care and monitoring of high-risk pregnancies. These visits are crucial for detecting and managing potential complications, providing education on maternal and child health, and promoting a healthy pregnancy outcome.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The ideal number of antenatal visits is 8, as recommended by the WHO. These visits are scheduled at specific intervals: 1st visit (first trimester), 2nd visit (between 16-20 weeks), 3rd visit (between 24-28 weeks), 4th visit (between 32-34 weeks), 5th visit (between 36-38 weeks), and 2 additional visits within 1 week of delivery and postpartum visit. This structured approach allows healthcare providers to monitor fetal growth, detect potential complications, and address any concerns or questions the mother may have.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not align with the WHO's recommendation for the ideal number of antenatal visits.
* **Option B:** This option is also incorrect as it does not provide a clear or evidence-based guideline for the number of antenatal visits.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect as it is lower than the recommended number of antenatal visits, which may compromise the quality of prenatal care.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Regular antenatal visits are crucial for detecting and managing potential complications, such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and fetal growth restriction. Early detection and management of these conditions can significantly improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce the risk of maternal and fetal morbidity.
**Correct Answer: A. 8**