What are the essential components of antenatal care? A systematic review of the literature and development of signal functions to guide monitoring and evaluation

Background Antenatal care (ANC) is one of the key care packages required to reduce global maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Objectives To identify the essential components of ANC and develop signal functions. Search strategy MESH headings for databases including Cinahl, Cochrane, Global Health, Medline, PubMed and Web of Science. Selection criteria Papers and reports on content of ANC published from 2000 to 2020. Data collection and analysis Narrative synthesis of data and development of signal function through 7 consensus-building workshops with 184 stakeholders. Main results A total of 221 papers and reports are included from which 28 essential components of ANC were extracted and used to develop 15 signal functions with the equipment, medication and consumables required for implementation of each. Signal functions for the prevention and management of infectious diseases (malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, syphilis and tetanus) can be applied depending on population disease burden. Screening and management of pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, anaemia, mental and social health (including intimate partner violence) are recommended universally. Three signal functions address monitoring of fetal growth and wellbeing, and identification and management of obstetric complications. Promotion of health and wellbeing via education and support for nutrition, cessation of substance abuse, uptake of family planning, recognition of danger signs and birth preparedness are included as essential components of ANC. Conclusions New signal functions have been developed which can be used for monitoring and evaluation of content and quality of ANC. Country adaptation and validation is recommended.

Automated summary

This study identified essential components of ANC and developed signal functions for prevention and management of various conditions. The results include 28 essential components of ANC and 15 signal functions, addressing infectious diseases, maternal conditions, fetal monitoring, obstetric complications, and health promotion. The developed signal functions can be used for monitoring and evaluating the content and quality of ANC, with recommendations for country adaptation and validation.