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Fetal Medicine

Role and Types of Ultrasound Pregnancy Test in Kolkata

From the day of conceiving to the day of delivery, a woman has to undergo emotional, mental and physical turmoil. There can be an unlimited number of complications throughout the pregnancy period. However, most of the complications remain undetected unless an ultrasonography pregnancy test is conducted on the mother.

In the entire 9 months of pregnancy, a mother must undergo many tests, out of which the 3D ultrasonography test in Kolkata is gaining popularity. With the help of this ultrasonography, the doctor can check the foetal development. Moreover, institutes use advanced technology to conduct a 3D ultrasonography test and hence any major complications can be detected, and necessary precautions can be taken to prevent further damage.

Every woman has undergone different ultrasonography tests during their pregnancy period. To know about the importance of availing the same, read on.

Why are ultrasound sonography tests important?

During the pregnancy period, 3 or 4 times, USG is done to check the baby’s development and complications in the pregnancy.

Early visibility scan

This is done at the moment when the individual conceives. The doctors check the number of gestational sacs and the fetus’s heart rates. Along with this, the doctors also check the condition of the uterus and ovary after the woman has conceived. Depending on the same reports, the individual is guided for the later stages of pregnancy.

NT scan

This is done between 11 to 13 weeks of pregnancy. The major reason behind conducting this scan is to check the presence of down syndrome in the child.

Anomaly scan

This scan is generally done between the 18 to 20th weeks of the pregnancy. This is vital USG as in this stage, the doctors check the development of the fetus’s spinal cord, heart, kidney, brain, and limbs.

Growth Scan

This is usually the last USG that a woman has to undergo during the 30th week. This USG shows the position of the placenta, amount of fluid, blood flow and oxygen flow into the baby. Depending on the results, the doctors fix the date of delivery.

 3 types of Ultrasounds

3D ultrasound

You’ll receive 3D images with specific details like the fetus’s height, width, depth, and organs.

Transvaginal ultrasound

This is done by probing through the vagina and gives a clear image of the lower abdomen, ovaries, and position of the placenta.

4D ultrasound

With the help of this USG, you can get a moving video of the foetus along with a clearer picture of the fetus’s face and movement.

For the best 3D ultrasonography pregnancy test in Kolkata, visit the Institute of Fetal Medicine. Our trained experts will help you get a clearer picture of the unborn child. Visit our website for further details.

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Know The Common Causes Of Women Infertility

Getting pregnant and carrying a baby is a complicated process. Infertility in both men and women has become quite common nowadays. You will be surprised to know that more than 30% of the women in the world face infertility issues. Numerous things can go wrong and prevent a woman from getting pregnant. Almost every woman desires to become a mother. If you are having infertility issues, get in touch with an infertility specialist at IFM Kolkata. Not only will they let you know the common causes of women infertility but also share the possible treatment options.

4 Common Causes Of Women Infertility

  • Lifestyle

Our hectic lifestyle and environmental factors are greatly responsible for problems with the menstrual cycle. The process is necessary to prepare the female body for pregnancy. There are numerous phases of the menstrual cycle. If an issue arises at any stage, the woman will have difficulties getting pregnant.

  • Structural Issues In The Reproductive System

Sometimes, abnormal tissues might develop in the fallopian tube and block it. It will prevent the eggs from moving from the ovaries to the uterus, and sperm can’t reach the egg for fertilization. If there is a structural problem in the uterus, it might even interfere with implantation and lead to infertility. Few of the common structural problems are uterine fibroids, endometriosis, polyps and scarring.

  • Infections

Infections are a common cause of infertility in both men and women. Pelvic inflammatory diseases might occur if women leave chlamydia or gonorrhoea untreated. They can cause scars and block the fallopian tubes. There are high chances for a woman to give birth to a still child if she leaves syphilis untreated. You can talk with an Infertility Specialist in Kolkata to know the various types of infections that can lead to infertility.

  • Endometriosis

The endometrium is the cells lining the uterine cavity. Endometriosis occurs when these cells develop outside the uterus. Doctors have established a link between endometriosis and infertility. According to a survey conducted a few years back, more than 30% of infertile women have endometriosis. Though no theories have been established on how endometriosis can lead to infertility, the structure of the female reproductive system can change.

Since you are now aware of the common causes of infertility in women, it’s time you get in touch with an experienced infertility specialist at IFM Kolkata. They have extensive experience in treating all types of infertility issues in males and females.

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What are the Benefits of Conducting a 3D Ultrasonography Pregnancy Test ?

Ultrasounds nowadays are more than shady and indecipherable pictures. 3D and 4D ultrasounds give a clearer view of the insides of the human body. With the help of high-frequency sound waves and special imaging software technology, the 3D Ultrasonography Pregnancy Test in Kolkata is the new trend among conceiving mothers. Having a clear first glimpse of your unborn foetus is certainly this world feeling. 3D ultrasounds have made it easier. The images you get are completely clear and free from obscurities. These ultrasounds produce clearer, sharper and accurate images of your little one.

Say no to the black and white blurry sonography pictures and enjoy the first glimpse of your child with the help of technologically upgraded 3D ultrasound systems. However, this is not the only benefit that 3D ultrasounds can give. They also offer more benefits which are as follows.

It helps to detect abnormalities

With 3D ultrasounds, doctors can see the abnormalities in a baby’s body. If there are any structural or facial abnormalities, then the same can be taken care of during the early stages of pregnancy. Unlike 2D ultrasound, this is more visible through a 3D ultrasound. This helps prepare the parents about the aftercare that they should take for the baby’s defects.

It helps to understand complications in pregnancy

If there is any complication in your pregnancy, a 3D ultrasound will determine the same effectively. Situations of ectopic pregnancy are easily determinable through 3D ultrasound methods. Early detection can save you and help you prevent a complicated pregnancy ahead. Ectopic pregnancy is a complex procedure and can result in a negative outcome.

It helps to monitor baby growth perfectly

The baby’s growth span, especially around 36 to 40 weeks, is easily detectable through 3D ultrasound technology. During this time, the breathing process, lung development and heart rates are observed closely. With the help of 3D technology, any congenital deformities can be detected very soon during the latter parts of the foetus development.

Helps to decide the type of delivery option

Ultrasounds in the latter stage of pregnancy are done to detect the baby’s position within the ovary. With the help of 3D ultrasound, you can easily get a view of the baby’s position and decide the delivery option accordingly. Options for either normal or c section can be easily taken when the doctors use 3D ultrasound.

At IFM Kolkata, we use a safe and secure process for a 3D ultrasound. Avail of our ultrasound services and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey of motherhood.

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blog page Fetal Medicine

Everything You Need to Know About Fetal Echocardiography

While your baby is still inside your womb, various medical examinations are required to ensure the safety and growth of the fetus. Fetal Echocardiography is one of them. It is similar to ultrasound. An unborn baby can have various medical conditions which have to be diagnosed to eliminate risks and ensure their proper growth inside at this stage.

What Is Fetal Echocardiography?

 

Medical examinations like fetal echocardiography allow the doctors to inspect and determine the structure of your unborn baby’s heart. The second trimester is the ideal time for doing this examination. Between weeks 18 to 24, your doctor may suggest you for this test.

This examination applies sound waves to get an “echo” of the fetus’s heart to understand its structure. There is a machine that analyses these sound waves to create a picture or echocardiogram to show the interior of the heart’s structure. Doctors obtain valuable information about the structural growth of the fetus’s heart through this picture. They can determine if the heart is working fine or if there are any issues that should be addressed immediately.

When Your Doctor Can Suggest Fetal Echocardiography?

 

Not all pregnant women are advised by their OB-GYNs to go through this test. A basic pregnancy ultrasound works well for most women. If the previous medical examinations are not good enough or conclusive to determine the condition of your fetus’s heart, then your OB-GYN may recommend Fetal Echocardiography. In case they detect the irregular or abnormal heartbeat of the fetus while examining you, then also this test can be done to be sure.

Your doctor may suggest this test if;

  • There are clinical possibilities that your child will have heart abnormalities or other disorders

  • There is a history of heart disease in your family history

  • You already have a child with a heart condition

  • You have consumed alcohol or drugs during your pregnancy

  • You have consumed medications that can cause heart defects in the fetus

  • You have medical conditions like type 1 diabetes, rubella, lupus, or phenylketonuria.

Usually, an experienced and highly qualified ultrasound technician performs this test as per the recommendation of an OB-GYN.

Your OB-GYN will examine you thoroughly to find out difficulties in your unborn baby’s different body parts and ensure the desired level of growth at various stages of pregnancy.

At IFM, we perform all these critical and advanced medical examinations for fetuses and moms. We have highly trained and qualified technicians along with modern equipment and the right kind of setups.

Please get in touch with us for more information.

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How Does the Sleeping Habit Affect the Fertility Rate?

Healthy sleeping habits are essential for promoting good health conditions. Research shows that women who are either insomniac or get fewer hours of sleep daily are less likely to get pregnant easily than those who follow normal sleeping patterns. According to experts, on average, an individual irrespective of gender, must sleep for at least eight to nine hours. Lack of sleep disturbs a person mentally and impacts negatively on the fertility level of the person.

Infertility specialists in Kolkata suggest infertile couples practice normal sleeping patterns as it helps to reduce anxiety, stress and maintains the hormone balance within the body. Moreover, a healthy immunity system is developed if your sleeping pattern is normal.

It is highly relevant that fertility level depends largely on a healthy lifestyle, weight management and appropriate hormone balance. Since all these are related to normal sleeping patterns, hence maintaining the same is essential.

4 infertility problems faced due to poor sleeping patterns

Hormone imbalance

Hormone balancing takes place when the body is at rest. Thus, when you sleep, your hormone levels increase. In the case of women, the levels of LH hormones tend to decrease if they stay awake through late nights. Thus, infertility specialists suggest women follow a regular sleeping pattern. This relieves them of stress and insitages better ovulation in the female body.

Risk of miscarriage

Night work or shift shifts during the pregnancy period is not an ideal option. The risk of miscarriage is high in case a pregnant woman doesn’t get enough sleep. The body needs double the amount of rest compared to a normal person’s amount of rest. Moreover, the majority of the medicines given during pregnancy are induced with mild sedatives to help the muscles and nerves relax. Since they are taken during bedtime, if the body doesn’t get the required amount of sleep, there’s a fair chance of miscarriage.

Delayed conception

As per the circadian rhythm, if a female body does not follow the regular sleeping pattern, the chances of conceiving early might get delayed. Lack of sleep gives rise to mood swings, irritation, depression, anger and tiredness. Hence, the rate of conception gets delayed as well.

Occurrence of PCOS

Irregular sleeping patterns increase body weight, which gives rise to problems like PCOS, Fibroid tumours, and endometriosis in the female body. These are a few unavoidable problems that make a woman infertile and, in most cases, makes it difficult for her to conceive.

To experience the joy of motherhood, contact experienced infertility specialists at the Institute of Fetal Medicine. Our infertility specialists will guide you through the process and make you aware of the do’s and don’ts of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Book your appointment and discuss your problems with us.

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3 Essential Tips for First-time Fertility Appointments

A child is indeed a blessing in every couple’s life. If you get naturally pregnant, then the journey of motherhood becomes memorable. However, there are thousands of couples who have a hard time conceiving a child. Infertility in men and woman has become a common problem nowadays. Unhealthy food habits, excessive work pressure, and lack of personal space are a few points that make a couple infertile and hard to conceive a baby.

For them visiting a good infertility specialist in Kolkata become the only option left. Unlike visiting a gynecologist during pregnancy, this can be an awkward visit! Put your inhibitions away and communicate openly with the infertility specialist. If you don’t tell them about your problem, then the treatment procedure will get delayed.

Depending on you and your partner’s health situation, the majority of the specialists will suggest undergoing IVF. This is a highly successful procedure with a guaranteed chance of conceiving a child if done properly. However, you and your partner have to open up in front of the specialist for the whole process to be successful. The first meeting can be complex and full of inhibitions. Follow a few pointers and start your journey comfortably.

How to communicate with an infertility specialist the first time?

Gather previous health reports

Don’t go unprepared, as this might put you and the specialist into trouble. When you decide to go to an infertility specialist, it means that you’ve tried conceiving naturally and failed in the past. Hence you must have undergone tests as well that highlight your problem. Hence arrange all previous reports like blood test reports, sonography reports, and medication data. Presenting the reports first will help you break the ice.

Note down the important points

Carry a notebook and note down the important points that you discuss in the session. The specialist may not go for IVF readily. They may suggest a few tests, changes in lifestyle, diet, and tell you to start exercising. You must not down the important points so that you start with the same instantly.

Shoot queries as much as possible

Fixing an appointment with the infertility specialist means you must be having a lot of queries in your mind. Ask your doubts. If you refrain from doing so, you might remain stressed even at the end of the session. The idea is to reduce your burden and get a clear view of the treatment procedure.

To experience the joy of motherhood, contact the Institute of Fetal Medicine. We have the best infertility specialists in Kolkata who can treat female infertility through IVF or IUI treatments. Fix your appointment and undergo a simple yet effective treatment to get the most joyful moment of your life.

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blog page Doppler Test

Why Are Doppler Tests Important During Pregnancy?

Unlike the older times, modern medicine has made much progress in different fields. Especially in pregnancy and fetus related problems, the usage of different advanced tests and technologies can now give an almost clear picture of the unborn baby and its development. Moreover, the tests are totally safe and completely pain-free. Among such tests, the Doppler test in Kolkata is suggested by all doctors. It is highly effective in detecting the growth, blood flow levels, heartbeats and heart rate of the unborn baby. 

Fetal medicine experts generally prefer running this test on every pregnant woman within the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Since they are safe without any side effects, these tests are an effective way to find abnormalities in the fetus. 

Why are Doppler tests effective?

For would-be moms who are afraid of needles, the Doppler test is a non-invasive process. This is generally done through transvaginal scanning. The Doppler test is important because of the following reasons.

  • It helps to detect blood clots and the possibility of ectopic pregnancy.

  • It scans the images of the fluids and detects the direction of the flow of fluid. 

  • It helps to detect the effective flow of blood through the umbilical cord to the veins and arteries of the fetus. 

  • It helps in the detection of damaged arteries and veins of the fetus.

  • It checks the heartbeats and the heart rates and tries to identify the abnormalities in the same. 

  • It also helps to assess the possibility of kidney malfunctions in the unborn child. 

What is the process of conducting a Doppler test?

This is an easy process and is quite similar to a normal ultrasound. Generally would be moms remain anxious about the pain part. However, Doppler tests are completely safe, and there’s no pain or risk involved in the same either for the mother or the baby. The Doppler test machine is connected with speakers, and with the application of gel on the area, the ultrasound is conducted. 

The doctor listens to the sound waves and makes the diagnosis accordingly. Sometimes the blood pressure of the mother is measured while the test is going on. It is either done through transvaginal scanning or lower abdomen scanning. The choice depends on the agreed opinions of the patient and the doctor. 

Get your Doppler test done at the earliest from certified fetal medicine experts at the Institute of Fetal Medicine. Our specialists will guide you through the process and provide effective advice if any abnormalities are detected after the test. Book your appointment now. 

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Thalassemia blog page

All You Need To Know About Thalassemia During Pregnancy

Most expectant mothers with Thalassemia traits have very little knowledge about the condition during pregnancy and the tests they have to undertake after they have conceived a child. So, the first thing you have to do is get your partner screened if you have Thalassemia. It will help you determine whether there is a chance for the condition to pass onto your child.

What Do You Mean By Thalassemia? How Is It Caused?

It is a hereditary condition that prevents our body from producing adequate haemoglobin, responsible for carrying oxygen through our bloodstream.  Haemoglobin is a protein present in red blood cells and comprises four protein subunits. More than 9000 children are born with Beta Thalassemia every year, making it one of India’s most common single-gene disorders. If you don’t want your child to be the next, visit the Institute of Fetal Medicine for Thalassemia Test in Kolkata.

How To Test For Thalassemia During Pregnancy?

You and your partner can get screened for Thalassemia both before and after conceiving a baby. Two common tests are the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography and Hemoglobin electrophoresis test. In addition, the doctor will conduct a blood test known as Complete Blood Count to track the presence of the Thalassemia trait in one’s body, the number of red blood cells and haemoglobin concentration.

What Does The Test Result Indicate?

Did you and your partner undergo the test before your pregnancy, and the test result showed that both of you are a silent carrier of Thalassemia? There is a 50% chance that your baby will become a carrier, there is a 25% chance that both of you being Thalassemia carrier won’t impact him and a 25% chance that your child will get the inherited blood disorder.

Do You Have To Worry About Thalassemia During Pregnancy?

Thalassemia is harmful to the unborn child during pregnancy if you fail to detect it at the right time. Expectant mothers should visit the Institute of Fetal Medicine for antenatal checkups at fixed intervals so doctors can closely monitor their health. Some doctors consider pregnancy with Thalassemia as a high-risk pregnancy.

The expectant mother can develop anaemia during her pregnancy if she only carries the traits. Proper management is necessary to prevent the condition from becoming severe. Prenatal testing will be necessary if both the parents have the trait. The test is done before the mother crosses her 12th-week pregnancy and helps in determining whether the baby will be born with Thalassemia Major.

What Is Beta-Thalassemia Major?

It is a severe condition when the child inherits one faulty gene from each parent. The number of healthy red blood cells in their body might be less than required. It makes them incapable of supplying sufficient oxygen through their body and causes life-threatening anaemia.

Conduct a Thalassemia test at the right time and you can decide whether you want to continue with the pregnancy or not.

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Consulting An Infertility Specialist – A Few Things To Know

Starting a family is often the most desired and sought-after couple goal. There is no specific time to plan a family. Any time is the right time though it all depends on the mental physical and financial states of the would-be parents. As it comes to planning a family, infertility is a major drawback that many couples face. And here is something that you should know before planning a family and consulting an infertility specialist if needed.

How long should you wait?

Well, you actually can’t do this luxury. Infertility is a time-sensitive issue. It is always recommended not to wait for the so-called ‘right time’ and put your fertility on hold. Otherwise, it might be really late.

How long have you been putting in the effort?

Have you been trying for more than a year to get pregnant without any fruitful outcome? Well, you might need to get medical assistance to conceive fast and of course, successfully. Don’t forget that the span is shorter for couples over 35 years. They should seek medical advice earlier being unsuccessful with normal attempts.

What factors to consider while planning to get pregnant?

  • Age – Are you below 35 or above?

  • Pre-existing medical condition and medical background – Do you have a history of any chronic illness in the family? Is there a history of early or premature menopause?

  • Reproductive problems – Now it’s time to check if you’re suffering from uterine/fallopian tube issues, PCOS, thyroid problem (for the female partner), endometriosis, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or sperm disorder.

  • Surgery/injury – Has any of the partners endured a surgery or any injury on the reproductive organs?

  • Cancer – Are you suffering from cancer or undergoing treatment?

  • Lifestyle – Check if any of you are underweight/obese. Do you drink or smoke?

Why should you be prompt?

  • The ovarian reserve gets declined with every menstrual cycle

  • As the age advances, the risks of miscarriage also get increased

  • Prior to starting your treatment, you might need to bring some lifestyle changes

  • Fertility screenings stretch over time; they may need additional screening as well

  • You may need to undergo several attempts resulting in a delay

What should you do now?

Visit a reputable Infertility Specialist in Kolkata having a good success rate in terms of infertility issues. They usually will want you to go through a couple-package to track the fertility status. The key steps at this phase are as follows:

  • Consultation with a fertility expert at your chosen clinic

  • Screening tests including Anti-Mullerian Hormone, Ultrasound scan, and tubal patency (HSG/ SIS )for the female partner

  • Screening tests includes semen analysis for the male partner

These tests will help to diagnose if there are any underlying issues related to infertility with any of the partners. The consultant is likely to guide you after checking the test reports so you can make a wise decision regarding what step you should take next.

Can it be cured?

Well, unfortunately, infertility can’t be cured always. But some cases are curable. There are 4 key options and those are:

  • Ovulation induction or OI – Restoration or regulation of the ovulation with the help of medicines.

  • Intrauterine insemination or IUI–This involves a marginally invasive procedure to place washed sperms directly in the uterus to enhance the possibility of fertilization.

  • IVF (Self Cycle) – This process involves retrieval of the mature egg of the female partner and healthy sperms of the male partner. Upon collection, the egg and the sperm are combined in the lab for the purpose of fertilization.

  • ICSI (Self Cycle) – This procedure involves injecting a healthy sperm into the egg with a fine glass needle while removing the limitations related to poor egg or less number of sperms/ Azoospermia.

These are the major things you need to know before visiting an infertility specialist.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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blog page Down Syndrome Fetal Medicine

Down Syndrome – A High-Risk Factor For Early Mothers and Unborn Babies

From the moment a mother conceives a new life, taking good care of the fetus becomes an integral part of her life. Regular doctor visits, taking medicines on time, getting all prenatal tests done and maintaining a healthy diet – that’s it. A mother is always conscious of her baby’s existence and hence does all the right things for the unborn child.

Down syndrome screening in Kolkata is one such popular tests that doctors recommend for early mothers nowadays. Tests can detect down syndrome generally in the first trimester. Mothers above the age of 35 years are likely to suffer from this syndrome. Not everyone is affected by the same; however, precautions are necessary to avoid future problems.

What to do if the down syndrome is detected during pregnancy?

Every pregnancy is unique. How would you feel if you get the bad news right at the beginning of your first trimester? The mere thought of the same scares many women from availing this test. However, down syndrome is not a very common disease. Generally, women with a family history of the same show signs of this syndrome during the pregnancy.

If you’re the unlucky one, then the bad news is there’s no medicine even if the same is detected. However, confirmation of the same from the test will mentally prepare you and your family members for the upcoming unique child. Remember one important thing – take good care of the mother who is having down syndrome. These mothers generally have a high to medium risk pregnancy.

How are these tests performed?

If you’re scared, then don’t be! This test doesn’t involve any pain. It’s a combination of an ultrasound and a simple blood test. Within 11 to 13 weeks of pregnancy, the ultrasound examination is done on the mother. During the same visit, the doctors will collect your blood samples via the fingerstick.

Beta HCG and Plasma Protein  A components are tested in the blood samples. Although understanding the medical terms might be complicated, as a mother, you should question the doctor until you get everything clear in your mind.

Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata is fully equipped and successfully conducts down syndrome screening in Kolkata for all pregnant women. If your case is severe and needs special attention, then our specialised doctors at IFM will guide you and take extra care while conducting the tests.