Nurturing a Secure Environment: A Mother-Child Haven In Focus
At the University Hospital Augsburg's Mother and Child Center, expectant parents experience comprehensive, interdisciplinary care from obstetricians, neonatologists, midwives, and specialists. The objective is to provide a sense of security and comfort throughout the pregnancy journey, says Prof. Dr. Christian Dannecker, Director of the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics.
From the early prenatal check-ups to postpartum care, the clinic's professionals are readily available, offering an around-the-clock support system. "Pregnancy and childbirth are a unique time, filled with aspirations, hopes, but also apprehension," explains Dr. Manuela Franitza, head of the Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine.
The center prides itself on offering specialized prenatal diagnostics, in addition to counseling sessions with specialists from various fields to provide expectant mothers with security and ease. Whether questions regarding breastfeeding, childbirth, or individual care arise, the Mother and Child Center offers all-encompassing support for the parents. "Parents are accompanied individually and empathetically in the secure environment of a large hospital," Dr. Franitza adds.
The hospital's close collaboration with all relevant specialties is one of its distinct advantages. If complications occur, specialists in neonatology, pediatric surgery, or anesthesiology can be involved promptly without causing added stress for the parents, says Prof. Dr. Fabian Fahlbusch, head of the Neonatology Department. "Our team works hand in hand to enable the best possible start in life for the newborn," he emphasizes.
Expectant parents with high-risk pregnancies or concerns about a complicated birth receive particularly attentive care, with specialized clinics addressing individual questions and needs, ensuring a trusting relationship before the birth. This improves confidence and promotes self-determined deliveries, even in cases of multiple births or babies requiring specialized medical care.
The neonatology department provides highly specialized care for premature babies or newborns with health challenges through a family-friendly environment. State-of-the-art medicine combines with empathetic nursing, ensuring parents' involvement in their children's care from the beginning. Parents' presence is essential for the development of premature babies.
The Mother and Child Center regularly hosts information events to help expectant parents ask questions, learn about the team, and become more familiar with the surroundings. Information evenings for expectant parents in 2025 will take place on the first Tuesday of each month: April 1, May 6, and June 3 in the Great Hall of the UKA. No registration is required; attendees are welcome to drop by. More information is available on the hospital's website.
Science plays a significant role in the Mother and Child Center, as they employ advanced prenatal diagnostics to ensure the health and wellness of both mother and child. Expectant parents have access to counseling sessions with specialists in various fields, providing them with the information and security they need throughout their pregnancy journey.
