Prenatal, postnatal, and antenatal care are all terms related to the care provided during and after pregnancy. However, the terms "prenatal" and "antenatal" are often used interchangeably. Here's a breakdown of each:

### 1. **Antenatal (or Prenatal) Care**:
This refers to the care a pregnant woman receives from healthcare professionals during her pregnancy.

- **Purpose**: 
  - Monitor the health of both the mother and the fetus.
  - Ensure any potential risks are identified and managed.
  - Educate the expectant mother about pregnancy, childbirth, and early stages of parenting.
  
- **Components**:
  - Regular check-ups with a midwife or obstetrician.
  - Blood tests to check for conditions and infections.
  - Ultrasounds to monitor fetal growth and development.
  - Screening tests, such as those for Down's syndrome.
  - Counseling and information on nutrition, physical activity, and preparation for childbirth.
  
### 2. **Postnatal Care**:
This pertains to the care provided to both the mother and the newborn baby immediately after birth and for the first six weeks following birth.

- **Purpose**: 
  - Monitor the recovery of the mother from the birth process.
  - Ensure the newborn is developing well and is healthy.
  - Provide support and information on topics like breastfeeding, contraception, and mental health.

- **Components**:
  - Physical examinations for the mother to check for any complications resulting from childbirth.
  - Observing and guiding breastfeeding practices.
  - Monitoring the baby's weight, height, and overall health.
  - Screening tests for the baby, such as hearing tests or the heel prick test.
  - Addressing any emotional or mental health concerns of the mother, including signs of postpartum depression.
  
### In Summary:

- **Antenatal (Prenatal) Care**: Care provided during pregnancy to ensure the health and well-being of the mother and fetus.
  
- **Postnatal Care**: Care provided after birth for both the mother and the newborn, ensuring they are healthy and recovering well.

All these phases of care are essential for ensuring the well-being of both the mother and child. They provide opportunities for healthcare professionals to identify and address potential problems early, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both the mother and baby.