Hearing that your baby may have a condition that requires surgery can feel overwhelming. Questions come quickly. What does this mean? What will happen after birth? How will my baby be cared for? Prenatal counselling with Johannesburg paediatric surgeon, Dr Niveshni Maistry, offers answers, guidance and preparation for families who have received a diagnosis before their child is born.
What is prenatal counselling?
Prenatal counselling is a consultation that takes place during pregnancy when scans or tests suggest that a baby may have a condition that will require an operation. It gives you the chance to meet with a specialist before the baby arrives, ask questions, and prepare for what lies ahead.
The aim is to reduce uncertainty and allow you to make informed choices about delivery plans, immediate care after birth, and any surgery your baby may need in the neonatal period.
Which conditions may be discussed in prenatal counselling?
Not every condition can be detected before birth. However, some surgical concerns are identified during routine ultrasounds or specialised antenatal scans. These may include:
- Abdominal wall defects such as gastroschisis or omphalocele
- Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
- Intestinal blockages or obstructions
- Lung malformations
- Kidney or urinary tract abnormalities
- Other structural differences that may require early surgical intervention
If one of these conditions is suspected, prenatal counselling helps you understand what to expect and how your baby will be supported.
Why is prenatal counselling important?
When you are given unexpected news about your pregnancy, it can feel daunting. Prenatal counselling provides a safe space to:
- Learn about the condition and what it means for your baby’s health
- Understand possible treatments or surgical procedures after birth
- Discuss delivery planning, including which hospital is best equipped to provide care
- Explore what immediate interventions may be needed in the newborn period
- Ask questions and voice concerns with a specialist who can provide clear explanations
Having this information before birth gives you time to prepare emotionally and practically for your baby’s arrival.
What happens during a prenatal counselling session?
Each consultation is tailored to your baby’s specific conditions and your family’s needs. You can expect:
- A review of the antenatal scans and findings
- A clear explanation of the condition and what it means for your baby after birth
- A discussion about the types of procedures or interventions that may be required
- Guidance on delivery planning and transfer of care if needed
- An opportunity to ask questions and raise any concerns
The session is not only about the medical details. It is also about ensuring you feel supported and informed as you prepare for your child’s arrival.
Don’t hesitate to reach out
Learning that your baby may need surgery before birth is never easy. But having the correct information can make the path forward clearer.
If you have received an antenatal diagnosis of a surgical condition, it might be beneficial to book a prenatal counselling session with Dr Maistry, a paediatric surgeon in Johannesburg. It allows you to prepare and feel supported as you await your baby’s arrival.