The journey to motherhood: An expert guide through every milestone

Becoming a parent is one of life’s most profound journeys, filled with hope, questions, challenges, and quiet moments of joy. Whether you’re just beginning to plan, facing unexpected delays, or navigating the highs and lows of pregnancy, every stage brings its own story.

Today, our experienced doctors walk you through each milestone, offering heartfelt advice, medical insight, and gentle reassurance. From understanding fertility to preparing for delivery, this guide is here to support you with clarity and compassion, because every parent deserves to feel informed, empowered, and never alone on the road to new life.

“Preparing for pregnancy involves more than stopping contraception”, says Dr Indira Venkataraman, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Aster Clinic, Al Muteena (Deira). “I always advise women to assess their overall health before trying to conceive. This includes managing chronic conditions, reaching a healthy weight, and starting prenatal supplements like folic acid. It’s also wise to evaluate menstrual regularity and stress levels. Even something as simple as optimising sleep can influence hormonal balance. If you’re over 30 or have underlying health issues, preconception counselling can help. A well-prepared body supports a healthier pregnancy. Planning ahead creates confidence and gives your baby the best possible beginning — even before conception takes place.”

Dr Mehnaz Abdulla, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Aster Clinic, Al Nahda (Sharjah), says, “It’s natural to feel concerned when conception doesn’t happen quickly.”

She explains, “Most healthy couples conceive within 6 to 12 months, but if you’ve been trying without success, don’t wait in silence. I often start by reviewing ovulation, timing, and lifestyle factors like stress, sleep, and diet. For women over 35, even six months of trying warrants a medical review. Sometimes, small adjustments can make a big difference. Infertility is more common than most people realise — and many causes are treatable. The key is timely evaluation. Don’t lose hope; seek clarity and move forward with informed guidance.”

“Fertility struggles often come with no symptoms at all,” says Dr Anitha Sophia Biju, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Aster Clinic, Bur Dubai (AJMC).

“As a doctor, I’ve seen many patients unaware of conditions like blocked fallopian tubes, fibroids, or endometriosis until tests reveal them. These issues don’t always cause pain or irregular periods — but they can silently prevent conception. That’s why simple diagnostic tools like ultrasound scans, blood tests, or hysterosalpingography can be so valuable. Identifying and addressing these silent barriers early can open doors to natural or assisted solutions. Fertility isn’t always about trying harder — sometimes, it’s about uncovering what’s hidden and treating it with care and precision.”

“Hormones play a crucial role in fertility. Conditions like PCOS, thyroid disorders, and irregular periods often disrupt ovulation”, says Dr Insha Khan, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Aster Speciality Clinic, Ajman. “I advise women to watch for subtle signs like acne, mood swings, or missed cycles — these may hint at deeper imbalances. The good news? Most hormonal conditions are treatable. Lifestyle changes, medications, and close monitoring can restore regular cycles and improve fertility outcomes. As a doctor, I’ve seen many women conceive once their body regains its natural rhythm. Understanding your hormones is empowering — and gives you the tools to boost your chances without guesswork or anxiety.”

“A positive pregnancy test is just the beginning of a new chapter,” says Dr Khushbu Bashir, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Aster Hospital, Mankhool.

“In these early weeks, your body is working hard behind the scenes, and careful monitoring is essential. We recommend confirming the pregnancy through blood tests and scheduling an early ultrasound to check for implantation and viability. Starting folic acid tablets on doctor’s advice, assessing thyroid and blood sugar levels, and avoiding harmful substances like smoking are vital in this phase. Many women feel nervous — that’s completely normal. With early medical support, you can ease into the journey feeling informed, reassured, and well-prepared for what’s ahead. Using serial blood tests and early scanning prevents early pregnancy complications like rupture ectopic pregnancy.”

“Some pregnancies come with added risks — but that doesn’t mean they can’t be healthy”, says Dr Fathima Safa, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Aster Hospital, Qusais.

“Conditions like high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or past complications require closer monitoring, not fear. We reassure the patients that high-risk care involves teamwork, detailed planning, and more frequent check-ups. Regular ultrasounds, lab tests, and lifestyle adjustments can help avoid emergencies. The key is early identification and continuous support. Every pregnancy is unique, and with the right guidance, many women go on to deliver safely. A high-risk label should never take away your joy — it simply invites extra care along the way.”

Dr Shuchita Meherishi, Specialist Laparoscopic Gynaecology at Aster Hospital, Qusais, says, “Modern medicine has transformed the way we care for expectant mothers. Today, we can detect abnormalities earlier, manage risks better, and personalise care like never before. Using advanced ultrasounds, first-trimester screenings, and targeted tests makes each step more informed. Innovations like non-invasive prenatal testing and foetal Doppler monitoring bring comfort and clarity to families. These tools don’t replace traditional care — they enhance it. Embracing medical advancements means fewer surprises and more preparedness. We always remind parents that technology in pregnancy isn’t about fear, but empowerment — helping you make safe, confident choices from the very beginning.”

“The last weeks of pregnancy are filled with anticipation, but also important check-ins”, says Dr Sejal Devendra Surti, Specialist Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Aster Hospital, Mankhool.

She further says, “I encourage women to stay alert to baby movements, swelling, and any signs of early labour. Around this time, we discuss birth plans, delivery options, and what to expect postpartum. It’s also when emotional wellbeing matters most — anxiety, fear, and fatigue are common. I always say, preparation goes beyond packing a hospital bag; it’s about mental readiness, realistic expectations, and leaning on your support system. The final stretch is more than a countdown — it’s a moment to pause, connect, and prepare for a beautiful beginning.”

At every step of your pregnancy journey, the right support makes all the difference. That’s where Aster Nurture comes in — a comprehensive maternity care programme designed to walk with you from the very first scan to the moment you hold your baby in your arms, and beyond. Through Aster Nurture, expecting parents receive guided consultations, personalised birth planning, antenatal education, and postnatal support — all centred around comfort, continuity, and compassion. It’s more than just care; it’s a nurturing partnership built on trust, knowledge, and reassurance. Because your journey to parenthood deserves to be celebrated, supported, and remembered with warmth at every milestone.

Every journey to parenthood is unique. Let Aster Hospitals and Clinics walk it with you.

For appointments, call us on 04 4400500 or download myAster app.