Health experts in Agago District are urging expectant mothers to prioritise antenatal care, warning that skipping routine medical check-ups during pregnancy can put both mothers and babies at serious risk.

Medical professionals say antenatal care remains one of the most effective ways to detect and prevent complications during pregnancy while preparing mothers for safe delivery. The call comes as health authorities intensify efforts to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths in the district.

According to the Ministry of Health Uganda, antenatal care enables health workers to monitor the health of both mother and unborn child, identify possible complications early, and provide important health education to expectant mothers.

The In-Charge of Patongo Health Centre IV, Dr Angenyo Samantha, said many life-threatening conditions such as high blood pressure, anemia, and infections often go unnoticed when mothers fail to attend antenatal visits. She added that antenatal care sessions also provide guidance on proper nutrition, birth preparedness, breastfeeding, and recognising danger signs during pregnancy.

Dr. Angenyo explained that the health facility frequently receives emergency cases involving mothers who did not attend antenatal care, making it more difficult for health workers to manage complications that could have been prevented through early monitoring.

Despite its importance, some expectant mothers still delay or miss antenatal care visits due to long distances to health facilities, financial challenges, limited awareness, and in some cases cultural beliefs or fear of medical procedures. Health experts say these barriers contribute to preventable complications and deaths, especially in rural communities.

Dr. Angenyo also responded to claims circulating in some communities that expectant mothers are harassed at the health facility. She dismissed the allegations, saying most of the reports remain unverified because people often spread rumours but fail to officially report cases. She encouraged anyone who experiences or witnesses harassment at the health facility to report it to health authorities so that investigations can be carried out and appropriate action taken.

Health officials say increasing community awareness and encouraging early antenatal visits will help protect mothers and newborns and improve maternal health outcomes across Agago District.