To ensure the good health of pregnant mothers, and to follow up on their medical needs, the City Health Office (CHO) is urging them to visit their barangay health centers at least eight times during their pregnancy.

Dr. Justine Romica D. Omandac, CHO District Health Physician I, in an interview during the first annual Buntis Congress in Bunawan District said that check-ups are very important for pregnant mothers.

“Sa within nine months sa inyong pagbuntis dapat eight times mo nakabalik inyohang mga health center, as well as dapat mapabakunahan pud mo (Within nine months of your pregnancy, you should have returned to your health center at least eight times, and you should also be vaccinated),” she said.

She emphasized that pregnant mothers should also have planned their pregnancy well, including the facility where they will give birth.

“Dapat ang pagpanganak dili sa balay dapat naa gyud sa facility nga naa ta’y health professionals na maka-facilitate (Childbirth should not happen at home; it should take place in a facility where there are health professionals who can assist),” Omandac added.

She advised that after delivery, mothers should visit their health centers at least four times, and also ensure that their children are vaccinated for protection and immunity from diseases.

Omandac said that as part of the Safe Motherhood Program of the CHO, they conduct yearly district-based Buntis Congress and also barangay-based Buntis Congress to expand the knowledge of pregnant mothers on pregnancy risks, and all the information they needed to know regarding the first, second and third trimester of pregnancy.

She added that some of the common health issues of pregnant women are Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), hypertension or high blood pressure, and gestational diabetes.

She said that during the Buntis Congress, pregnant mothers are also informed of the signs and symptoms that require immediate medical attention. They also enjoy free health services such as laboratory services, dental services, and nutrition services.. CIO