November 13, 2026 · ✓ Medically Reviewed by Apex Clinical Team
A healthy pregnancy starts before conception: see a gynaecologist for a pre-pregnancy check, start folic acid, and plan regular antenatal visits — the World Health Organization recommends at least eight antenatal contacts. Choose a hospital you can reach quickly at any hour, with round-the-clock obstetric, anaesthesia and newborn care. Go to hospital immediately for bleeding, severe abdominal pain, leaking fluid, reduced baby movements, severe headache or blurred vision, or fits.
A growing neighbourhood of young families
Yelahanka New Town, Hebbal, Sahakar Nagar, Jakkur and Thanisandra have seen rapid residential growth. Around the Yelahanka–Puttenahalli lake catchment alone, BWSSB has told the National Green Tribunal it expects the population to reach 78,312 by 2051, and highlighted "rapid population growth in and around" the area (Bangalore Mirror). Many families moving here are planning their first child, often away from their parents' homes — so planning care close to home matters.
Distance and traffic are real considerations. With 18 months of restrictions on Ballari Road south of Hebbal from November 2026 (Business Standard), a long cross-city drive during labour can take much longer than expected.
Before you conceive: the pre-pregnancy check
A pre-conception visit to a gynaecologist usually covers:
- Folic acid — generally recommended from before conception through the first trimester to reduce the risk of neural tube defects; your doctor will advise the dose.
- Blood tests — haemoglobin, blood group, thyroid, blood sugar, and screening for infections such as rubella immunity, hepatitis B, HIV and syphilis.
- Review of long-term conditions — diabetes, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, epilepsy or PCOS should be well controlled before pregnancy.
- Medicines check — some medicines need to be changed before you conceive.
- Lifestyle — stop smoking and alcohol, aim for a healthy weight, and stay active.
Antenatal care: how often should you be seen?
In 2016, WHO increased its recommended minimum number of antenatal contacts from four to eight, to reduce complications and improve women's experience of care (WHO). Your obstetrician may advise more visits if your pregnancy is higher-risk.
| Stage | What usually happens |
|---|---|
| First trimester (up to 12 weeks) | Confirm pregnancy and due date, first blood tests, dating scan, first-trimester screening (around 11–14 weeks) |
| Second trimester (13–27 weeks) | Detailed anomaly scan (around 18–22 weeks), blood pressure and weight checks, glucose screening for gestational diabetes |
| Third trimester (28–40 weeks) | More frequent visits, growth scans if needed, baby's position, birth plan discussion |
| After 40 weeks | Close monitoring; discussion of induction if pregnancy continues |
Exact timing varies by guideline and individual need — your obstetrician will set a schedule for you.
Warning signs: when to go to hospital straight away
| Symptom | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Vaginal bleeding | Can signal miscarriage, placental problems or early labour |
| Severe abdominal pain | Possible ectopic pregnancy (early) or placental abruption (later) |
| Leaking or gushing fluid | Waters may have broken |
| Reduced or no baby movements (later pregnancy) | Baby may need urgent assessment |
| Severe headache, blurred vision, swelling of face or hands | Possible pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy) |
| Fits or fainting | Emergency |
| Fever, burning urine, feeling very unwell | Possible infection |
| Regular painful contractions before 37 weeks | Possible preterm labour |
Don't wait for your next appointment if you notice any of these — call the labour ward or go to the emergency department.
Choosing where to deliver: a practical checklist
| Question to ask | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| How far is the hospital at peak traffic and at night? | Labour and emergencies don't follow office hours |
| Is an obstetrician available 24/7? | For emergencies and assisted deliveries |
| Is an anaesthetist available round the clock? | For epidurals and emergency caesareans |
| Is there newborn / neonatal care on site? | For babies who need extra support after birth |
| Is there blood bank support? | For heavy bleeding after delivery |
| Can a partner or family member stay? | Support during labour and recovery |
| What are the costs and insurance tie-ups? | Avoid surprises at discharge |
Normal delivery or caesarean?
Most healthy pregnancies can aim for a vaginal birth. A caesarean section may be advised for medical reasons, such as the baby's position, placental problems, previous caesarean scars in some cases, or concerns about the baby's or mother's health during labour. Discuss your preferences early and ask your obstetrician to explain the reasons for any recommendation.
After the birth
- Breastfeeding support in the first days.
- Newborn checks, vaccinations and screening — our Paediatrics and Neonatology team looks after babies from birth.
- Postnatal check for the mother, including blood pressure, healing and mood. Low mood that lasts more than two weeks after birth should be discussed with a doctor.
How we can help
The Obstetrics and Gynaecology department at Apex Multispeciality Hospital supports women from pre-pregnancy planning through antenatal care, delivery and recovery. For newborns, our Paediatrics and Neonatology team provides care from the first day, and we also offer health packages.
Contact us to book a consultation with our obstetrics team.
Frequently asked questions
When should I see a gynaecologist if I am planning a pregnancy?
Ideally a few months before you start trying, so you can begin folic acid, have blood tests, update vaccinations and get any long-term conditions under control.
How many antenatal visits are recommended?
The World Health Organization recommends at least eight antenatal contacts during pregnancy. Your obstetrician may suggest more if your pregnancy needs closer monitoring.
What are the danger signs in pregnancy?
Bleeding, severe abdominal pain, leaking fluid, reduced baby movements, severe headache or blurred vision, fits, high fever, or regular contractions before 37 weeks. Go to hospital immediately.
How do I choose a maternity hospital in Yelahanka?
Consider travel time at all hours, round-the-clock obstetric and anaesthesia cover, newborn care, blood bank support, family stay facilities and costs. Visit beforehand and ask questions.
Does Apex Multispeciality Hospital offer pregnancy care near Hebbal and Sahakar Nagar?
Yes. Apex Multispeciality Hospital on Bellahalli Main Road, Yelahanka, Sathanur has Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Paediatrics and Neonatology departments. Call +91-80-29918321 to book.
Contact Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Yelahanka
Apex Multispeciality Hospital, Bellahalli Main Road, Near Reva University, Yelahanka, Sathanur, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560064.
- Emergency: +91-80-29917805
- Appointments: +91-80-29918321
- WhatsApp: +91 82964 22571
- Contact us and directions
In a life-threatening emergency, call 112 (national emergency number) or 108 (ambulance) and go to the nearest emergency department.
Reviewed by the Apex clinical team. This article is for general health information and is not a substitute for a consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified doctor. If you think you or someone with you is having a medical emergency, call 112 or 108 immediately.
