19.09.2024
Prenatal care has been a quality-assured and successful part of health care for decades, even in international comparison. The Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF) emphasizes that the care of expectant mothers – today more than ever – is adapted to the individual needs of each woman and is based on the latest scientific findings: regardless of whether it concerns an additional ultrasound or a cytomegalovirus screening. Undifferentiated criticism of specialist medical services, on the other hand, permanently damages the relationship of trust and has a negative impact on the care of the vulnerable group of pregnant women.
Table of Contents
- 1 Prenatal care has been a quality-assured and successful part of health care for decades, even in international comparison. The Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF) emphasizes that the care of expectant mothers – today more than ever – is adapted to the individual needs of each woman and is based on the latest scientific findings: regardless of whether it concerns an additional ultrasound or a cytomegalovirus screening. Undifferentiated criticism of specialist medical services, on the other hand, permanently damages the relationship of trust and has a negative impact on the care of the vulnerable group of pregnant women.
- 2 – What are the key components of prenatal care in Germany?
- 3 What is the significance of evidence-based prenatal care in ensuring the health of expectant mothers and their babies?
Table of Contents
- 1 Prenatal care has been a quality-assured and successful part of health care for decades, even in international comparison. The Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF) emphasizes that the care of expectant mothers – today more than ever – is adapted to the individual needs of each woman and is based on the latest scientific findings: regardless of whether it concerns an additional ultrasound or a cytomegalovirus screening. Undifferentiated criticism of specialist medical services, on the other hand, permanently damages the relationship of trust and has a negative impact on the care of the vulnerable group of pregnant women.
- 2 – What are the key components of prenatal care in Germany?
The BVF firmly rejects current criticism from midwifery circles that pregnancy care is not evidence-based and that women are unsettled by risk-oriented measures. Such claims actually contribute to uncertainty among pregnant women and their families and fail to recognise the great importance of precise diagnostics and risk-adapted medical care. The Maternity Directive (Mu-RL) guarantees comprehensive care and the minimum scope of necessary information, advice and examinations for every pregnant woman. But where necessary, care can and must sometimes go beyond the Mu-RL: an individual decision in a confidential doctor-patient relationship. There are additional scientific guidelines available for this, on the basis of which additional examinations can be carried out if there is a clear benefit for the pregnant woman or if there are special requirements. This may be an additional ultrasound if medically necessary, but also, for example, screening for cytomegaly (CMV), which is not part of the Mu-RL but is recommended by many medical associations and doctors. For the CMV example, the BVF has created a comprehensive FAQ, which can be accessed here.
“Every pregnancy is unique and our aim is to identify potential problems in good time and, if necessary, treat them. Pregnant women approach us gynecologists with this expectation,” stresses Dr. Klaus Doubek, President of the BVF. “Gynecological care in Germany has been making an indispensable contribution to the health of mother and child for decades.” This is also reflected in Germany’s world-leading low rates of maternal and infant mortality.
The BVF emphasizes that the health and safety of mother and child always have the highest priority. Specialist medical care offers expectant mothers an informed, participatory decision to make the pregnancy as safe and individual as possible.
Sources and further information:
Source: Press release of the Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF) dated 19.09.2024
– What are the key components of prenatal care in Germany?
Prenatal Care in Germany: A Quality-Assured and Scientifically-Driven Approach
September 19, 2024
When it comes to prenatal care, Germany has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, surpassing international standards. The Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF) emphasizes that the care of expectant mothers is tailored to individual needs, grounded in the latest scientific findings, and goes beyond the minimum requirements set forth by the Maternity Directive (Mu-RL).
Comprehensive Care and Precise Diagnostics
Contrary to recent criticisms from midwifery circles, the BVF firmly rejects the notion that pregnancy care in Germany is not evidence-based. Such claims can create unnecessary uncertainty among pregnant women and their families, undermining the trust between healthcare providers and patients. In reality, risk-oriented measures are essential to identifying potential problems early on, ensuring timely intervention, and promoting the best possible outcomes.
Individualized Care and Confidential Doctor-Patient Relationships
While the Mu-RL guarantees a minimum scope of necessary information, advice, and examinations for every pregnant woman, the BVF acknowledges that additional care may be necessary in certain cases. In these instances, gynecologists work closely with patients to make informed decisions, taking into account individual circumstances and scientific guidelines. For example, supplementary ultrasounds or cytomegalovirus (CMV) screenings may be recommended to ensure optimal care.
The Importance of CMV Screening
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common viral infection that can have serious consequences for unborn babies. While CMV screening is not part of the Mu-RL, many medical associations and doctors recommend it as a precautionary measure. The BVF has created a comprehensive FAQ on CMV screening, accessible <a href="https://www.frauenaerzte-im-netz.de/typo3temp/processed/3/a/csminfo-iconcBeboyFotolia33791535600px04_22a6c97109.jpg”>here.
Gynecological Care in Germany: A Commitment to Excellence
Dr. Klaus Doubek, President of the BVF, stresses the importance of gynecological care in Germany: “Every pregnancy is unique, and our aim is to identify potential problems in good time and, if necessary, treat them. Pregnant women approach us gynecologists with this expectation.” The BVF’s commitment to quality-assured care has made an indispensable contribution to Germany’s reputation as a leader in prenatal care.
Conclusion
Prenatal care in Germany is a shining example of a well-organized and scientifically-driven approach to healthcare. By embracing individualized care, precise diagnostics, and risk-adapted medical care, gynecologists in Germany provide expectant mothers with the highest level of care possible. The BVF’s rejection of undifferentiated criticism and its emphasis on the importance of precise diagnostics and risk-oriented measures ensure that pregnant women receive the best possible care, leading to optimal outcomes for both mother and child.
Keywords: Prenatal care, Germany, quality-assured, scientifically-driven, gynecological care, Maternity Directive (Mu-RL), cytomegalovirus (CMV) screening, Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF), evidence-based care, risk-oriented measures, individualized care, confidential doctor-patient relationships.
What is the significance of evidence-based prenatal care in ensuring the health of expectant mothers and their babies?
Prenatal Care: A Quality-Assured and Successful Part of Healthcare for Decades
September 19, 2024
Prenatal care has been a cornerstone of healthcare for decades, with a reputation for excellence that extends beyond national borders. The Professional Association of Gynecologists (BVF) emphasizes that the care of expectant mothers is more tailored to individual needs than ever before, founded on the latest scientific findings. Whether it involves additional ultrasounds or cytomegalovirus screenings, prenatal care is designed to provide comprehensive support to pregnant women, ensuring the best possible outcomes for them and their babies.
The Importance of Evidence-Based Prenatal Care
Despite this track record of success, some critics have questioned the evidence-based nature of prenatal care, suggesting that risk-oriented measures unsettle pregnant women. However, the BVF firmly rejects these claims, arguing that they create unnecessary uncertainty among expectant mothers and their families. In reality, precise diagnostics and risk-adapted medical care are essential for identifying potential problems early and providing effective treatment.
The Maternity Directive: A Foundation for Comprehensive Care
The Maternity Directive (Mu-RL) provides a framework for comprehensive care, guaranteeing every pregnant woman access to necessary information, advice, and examinations. While this directive sets a minimum standard for care, it is essential to recognize that individual circumstances may require additional measures beyond the Mu-RL. In these cases, decisions are taken in the context of a confidential doctor-patient relationship, informed by scientific guidelines and a clear understanding of the benefits and risks involved.
The Role of Additional Examinations in Prenatal Care
Additional examinations, such as ultrasounds or cytomegalovirus screenings, can play a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of pregnant women and their babies. These measures are not undertaken lightly, but rather as a response to specific medical needs or risks. For example, screening for cytomegalovirus (CMV) is recommended by many medical associations and doctors, although it is not part of the Mu-RL. In this regard, the BVF has developed a comprehensive FAQ to provide expectant mothers with accurate and reliable information.
The Benefits of Personalized Prenatal Care
Every pregnancy is unique, and the goal of prenatal care is to identify potential problems in good time and, if necessary, provide timely and effective treatment. By recognizing the individual needs of each expectant mother, healthcare professionals can deliver personalized care that addresses specific risks and circumstances. This approach not only enhances outcomes for mothers and babies but also fosters a trusting relationship between healthcare providers and patients.
Conclusion
Prenatal care is a quality-assured and successful part of healthcare, with a long history of delivering excellent outcomes for expectant mothers and their babies. By rejecting undifferentiated criticism of specialist medical services and embracing evidence-based care, we can ensure that pregnant women receive the highest level of support and guidance throughout their pregnancies.
What are the Key Components of Prenatal Care in Germany?
In Germany, prenatal care typically includes:
- Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider
- Ultrasound examinations
- Blood tests and screenings for potential health risks
- Counseling on pregnancy-related topics, such as nutrition and lifestyle
- Access to additional examinations and screenings, such as cytomegalovirus testing, as needed
By combining these components, healthcare providers in Germany can deliver comprehensive and personalized care to expectant mothers, supporting them throughout their pregnancies and beyond.
