Pregnancy Care in Kathmandu
From your first positive test to postpartum recovery — Dr Rashmi Bastakoti provides expert, compassionate pregnancy care for every stage of your journey. Comprehensive ANC, high-risk pregnancy management, and PNC in Kathmandu.
Our Pregnancy Care Services
Antenatal Care (ANC)
Regular check-ups, growth monitoring, blood tests, ultrasounds, and nutritional guidance throughout all three trimesters.
High-Risk Pregnancy
Specialized management for gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placenta previa, multiple pregnancies, and previous complications.
Fetal Monitoring
Detailed anomaly scans, Doppler studies, non-stress tests, and biophysical profiles to ensure fetal wellbeing.
Normal & C-Section Delivery
Expert management of both vaginal delivery and cesarean section with a focus on safe outcomes for mother and baby.
Postpartum Care (PNC)
Comprehensive postnatal support including wound care, breastfeeding guidance, postpartum depression screening, and contraception.
Pregnancy Nutrition
Personalized dietary advice, prenatal vitamin guidance, and management of pregnancy-related nutritional deficiencies.
Your Pregnancy Journey
First Trimester
Weeks 1–12
- ✓Pregnancy confirmation
- ✓Dating ultrasound
- ✓Blood group & Rh typing
- ✓Folic acid & iron supplements
- ✓Nausea management
- ✓Genetic counseling if needed
Second Trimester
Weeks 13–26
- ✓Anomaly scan (18–20 weeks)
- ✓Glucose tolerance test
- ✓Fetal movement monitoring
- ✓Iron & calcium supplementation
- ✓Cervical length assessment
- ✓Birth planning discussion
Third Trimester
Weeks 27–40
- ✓Growth scans
- ✓Non-stress test
- ✓GBS screening
- ✓Birth plan finalization
- ✓Hospital bag preparation
- ✓Signs of labor education
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start antenatal care?
Ideally, your first antenatal visit should be within the first 8–10 weeks of pregnancy. Early care allows us to confirm the pregnancy, assess risk factors, start essential supplements like folic acid and iron, and establish your due date. If you discover you're pregnant later, book your appointment as soon as possible. Early care improves outcomes for you and your baby.
How many antenatal visits are recommended during pregnancy?
We recommend at least 8 antenatal visits: monthly until 28 weeks, every 2 weeks from 28–36 weeks, then weekly until delivery. High-risk pregnancies require more frequent monitoring. Each visit includes blood pressure check, urine test, weight monitoring, fetal heartbeat assessment, and belly measurement. Additional scans and tests are scheduled as needed.
What is high-risk pregnancy and what factors increase risk?
A pregnancy is considered high-risk if there are factors that could affect mother or baby health. Risk factors include: maternal age over 35 or under 18, twins or multiples, pre-existing conditions (diabetes, hypertension, thyroid, heart disease), previous pregnancy complications (miscarriage, preterm birth, C-section), pregnancy complications (gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, placenta previa), and lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol). High-risk pregnancies require specialized monitoring and care.
What tests and scans are done during pregnancy?
Routine tests include: blood tests (blood group, hemoglobin, infections, immunity), urine tests, blood pressure monitoring, and ultrasound scans. Key ultrasounds: dating scan (8–12 weeks), NT scan (11–13 weeks), anomaly scan (18–22 weeks), and growth scans as needed. Additional tests for high-risk pregnancies may include: glucose tolerance test, Group B Strep screening, and specialized fetal monitoring.
Do you offer both normal delivery and C-section?
Yes. We support both normal vaginal delivery and planned or emergency C-section depending on clinical indications. We aim for the safest outcome for mother and baby. If you have no complications, we encourage normal delivery with pain management options. C-section is performed when medically necessary or by patient choice after counseling. We discuss delivery options during antenatal visits.
What are the warning signs during pregnancy I should watch for?
Contact us immediately if you experience: vaginal bleeding or spotting, severe abdominal pain or cramping, sudden swelling of hands/face, severe headaches that won't go away, blurred vision or seeing spots, decreased fetal movement after 28 weeks, fever over 38°C, leaking fluid from vagina, signs of preterm labor (regular contractions before 37 weeks), or persistent vomiting. These symptoms require prompt evaluation.
What supplements should I take during pregnancy?
Essential supplements include: folic acid (400–600 mcg daily, ideally starting before conception), iron (27–30 mg daily to prevent anemia), calcium (1000 mg daily for baby's bones), vitamin D (600–1000 IU daily), and DHA (omega-3 for baby's brain development). We may prescribe additional supplements based on your blood tests. Avoid high-dose vitamin A and herbal supplements without medical advice.
What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
Avoid or limit: raw or undercooked meat and eggs (risk of salmonella, toxoplasmosis), unpasteurized dairy products (risk of listeria), high-mercury fish (shark, swordfish, king mackerel), raw fish and sushi, deli meats unless heated, excessive caffeine (limit to 200mg/day — about 1–2 cups), alcohol (no safe amount), and unwashed fruits/vegetables. A balanced diet supports healthy pregnancy.
Can I exercise during pregnancy?
Yes, moderate exercise is beneficial for most pregnancies. Recommended activities include: walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, stationary cycling, and low-impact aerobics. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. Avoid: contact sports, activities with fall risk, hot yoga, scuba diving, and exercises requiring lying flat on your back after 16 weeks. Consult us before starting new exercise routines, especially if you have complications.
What is gestational diabetes and how is it managed?
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar developing during pregnancy, usually around 24–28 weeks. Risk factors include: obesity, previous gestational diabetes, family history of diabetes, and PCOS. Management includes: blood sugar monitoring, dietary modifications, regular exercise, and sometimes insulin or oral medications. Most women with well-controlled gestational diabetes have healthy pregnancies and babies. Screening is done at 24–28 weeks.
What is preeclampsia and what are the symptoms?
Preeclampsia is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in urine, usually after 20 weeks. Symptoms include: severe headache, vision changes (blurring, flashing lights), sudden swelling of hands/face, upper abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting after 20 weeks, and decreased urine output. Risk factors include first pregnancy, age over 35, obesity, multiple pregnancy, and history of preeclampsia. Immediate medical attention is essential.
What is postpartum care (PNC) and why is it important?
Postnatal care covers the 6 weeks after delivery, monitoring your recovery and addressing concerns. This includes: checking uterus involution and bleeding, monitoring blood pressure, breastfeeding support and latch assessment, postpartum depression screening, contraception counseling, wound healing (C-section or episiotomy), and newborn care guidance. The first PNC visit should be within 3–7 days after delivery, with follow-up at 6 weeks.
What are the signs of postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression affects 10–15% of mothers. Signs include: persistent sadness or emptiness, loss of interest in activities, difficulty bonding with baby, withdrawal from family/friends, changes in appetite or sleep, overwhelming fatigue, irritability or anger, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and thoughts of harming yourself or baby. Unlike 'baby blues' which resolves in 2 weeks, PPD persists and requires treatment. Seek help immediately if you experience these symptoms.
What breastfeeding support do you provide?
We provide comprehensive breastfeeding support including: initial latch assistance after delivery, guidance on positioning and technique, addressing common problems (sore nipples, engorgement, blocked ducts), milk supply concerns, guidance for pumping and storage, introducing solid foods, and weaning advice. We encourage exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. If you experience difficulties, don't hesitate to ask for help — most challenges can be resolved with proper support.
When can I resume sexual activity after delivery?
Generally, sexual activity can be resumed after 6 weeks postpartum, following your check-up. However, this varies based on delivery type, healing, and comfort. Vaginal bleeding should have stopped, and any stitches should be healed. Use contraception even if breastfeeding — ovulation can return before your first period. Discuss family planning options at your postpartum visit. Listen to your body and don't rush.
Is the consultation confidential?
Yes, all consultations are completely private and confidential. Your medical information, test results, and discussions are protected. We maintain strict patient privacy at all times. You can discuss any concerns openly without fear of judgment or disclosure.
How do I book an appointment?
Call +977 9700682797, WhatsApp us, or use the Book Appointment button on our website. For pregnancy care, we recommend early booking to establish your care plan. Bring any previous medical records, test results, and a list of questions. We offer flexible appointment times and same-day appointments for urgent concerns.
Book Your Antenatal Appointment
Expert pregnancy care in Kathmandu. Confidential & compassionate.