MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko: Early Antenatal Care Key to Preventing Complications
Gauteng Health MEC Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko has urged expectant mothers to seek antenatal care as early as possible, warning that late clinic visits place both mothers and babies at risk. Speaking at a maternal health awareness campaign, she highlighted that early interventions remain the most effective way to reduce complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Why Early Antenatal Care Matters
Booking antenatal care within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy is vital. It allows health professionals to detect risks such as high blood pressure, diabetes, anaemia, or infections that may threaten a safe pregnancy. Early detection also enables doctors and nurses to provide treatment and lifestyle advice before problems escalate. Without such monitoring, conditions like preeclampsia, premature labour, or stillbirth are far more likely to occur.
Learn more: South Africa Adopts New Social Impact Bond to Fund HIV-Aids Research
The Situation in Gauteng
Maternal health remains a concern across South Africa. Gauteng, with its growing population, continues to face challenges in ensuring that women book early. Some of the barriers include distance to clinics, lack of awareness, and stigma attached to teenage pregnancies. The MEC stressed that overcoming these challenges requires strong partnerships between government, healthcare workers, and communities.
Government Interventions
The Gauteng Department of Health offers free antenatal services across public healthcare facilities. Special programmes are also in place to support teenagers, HIV-positive mothers, and women from vulnerable communities. Midwives and nurses are receiving additional training to strengthen maternal care services. The province is also investing in more educational campaigns, emphasising that every pregnancy deserves proper medical attention from the start.
MEC’s Call to Action
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko appealed to families and partners to support pregnant women by encouraging early clinic visits. She underlined that pregnancy is not the responsibility of the mother alone, and urged fathers to play an active role in safeguarding maternal health. The MEC also encouraged communities to spread awareness, particularly in areas where myths and misinformation prevent women from seeking care.
Closing Message
“Every healthy pregnancy begins with timely antenatal care,” MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko said, calling on all women in Gauteng to prioritise their health and that of their unborn babies. For more information, visit the Gauteng Department of Health website or call the National Health Hotline on 0800 029 999 for guidance on the nearest clinic.
