Pregnancy often brings many questions: “Is my baby okay?” “Am I eating right?” “Will I be ready to give birth?” But one question that doesn’t get asked enough is:
“Am I okay?”
Maternal screenings are the quiet heroes of pregnancy care. These simple tests, done during antenatal visits or after delivery, can detect serious health issues early, when they’re still easy to manage. They’re not just about your baby. They’re about you.
At AfyaMoja, we believe a healthy mother makes a strong family. Let’s talk about why screenings matter - and how you can access them.
What Are Maternal Screenings?
Screenings are health checks that detect early signs of illness, infection, or complications. They don’t always mean something is wrong, but they give your nurse or doctor the full picture of your health.
Here are common screenings offered during and after pregnancy:
- Blood pressure checks to catch pre-eclampsia or hypertension
- Urine tests to detect infections or protein (a sign of kidney strain)
- Blood tests for anaemia, HIV, syphilis, and sometimes diabetes
- Weight monitoring to check if you’re gaining enough or too much
- Mental health assessments for postpartum depression or anxiety
These are quick, painless, and often part of routine checkups.
Why Screenings Matter (Even If You Feel Fine)
Many pregnancy complications show no symptoms until they become dangerous.
For example:
- High blood pressure can quietly rise and lead to seizures (eclampsia)
- Anaemia can leave you exhausted and increase your risk during delivery
- Syphilis or HIV, if untreated, can be passed on to your baby
“During my fourth month, I was told I had very low blood. I didn’t feel sick, but the nurse explained that I needed iron tablets to stay strong for labour. I’m glad they caught it early.”
— Janet, 30, from Kitui
Early action = safer pregnancy and healthier birth.
Mental Health Is Important Too
After birth, many women go through emotional ups and downs. But when sadness becomes overwhelming or constant, it could be postpartum depression. It’s real, and it’s more common than many people think.
Screening for mental health at postnatal visits helps catch these feelings early. It opens the door to care, counselling, and reassurance.
You are not alone, and there is support.
How AfyaMoja Supports Maternal Health
At AfyaMoja, we provide lifestyle education content to support prevention and early screening of diabetes and mental health during and after pregnancy, because regular check-ups, staying active, and eating well can make all the difference.
To access this support, dial *393*103#, select option 2 to enroll in AfyaMoja Health Education, then select option 2 to get enrolled on AfyaMoja Post Natal Care.
Our messages are simple, private, and tailored to where you are in your journey.
Taking Charge of Your Health Is a Strength
You are your baby’s first home, first food, and first love. Caring for yourself isn’t selfish - it’s part of loving your child. Whether it’s a blood test, a blood pressure reading, or just a conversation about how you feel, maternal screenings give you the power to thrive.
With AfyaMoja, you don’t have to wait until something goes wrong to act. You can start today.
