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Dual Marker Test is Normal – Is Quadruple Marker Still Needed?

Dual Marker Test is Normal – Is Quadruple Marker Still Needed

When expecting parents receive normal results in the Dual Marker Test, the natural question that follows is:
“Do we still need to do the Quadruple Marker Test?”

At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, this is one of the most frequently asked questions during the second trimester of pregnancy. Let’s break it down for you.

What Is the Dual Marker Test?

The Dual Marker Test is a first-trimester screening typically done between 11 and 13.6 weeks of gestation. It measures two biochemical markers (Free β-hCG and PAPP-A) and, when combined with the NT scan, helps assess the risk of chromosomal conditions such as:

  • Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
  • Edward’s syndrome (Trisomy 18)

If your results are low-risk, it is reassuring — but does that mean no further screening is needed?

What Is the Quadruple Marker Test?

The Quadruple Marker Test is a second-trimester screening typically performed between 15 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. It measures four hormones in the mother’s blood:

  • Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
  • Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
  • Estriol (uE3)
  • Inhibin A

This test provides more accuracy than the Triple Marker Test and helps evaluate the risk of:

  • Neural tube defects (like spina bifida)
  • Chromosomal abnormalities (Down syndrome, Trisomy 18)
  • Certain pregnancy-related complications

It is especially recommended if the first-trimester screening was missed or was inconclusive.

If Dual Marker Test Was Normal, Is Quadruple Marker Necessary?

The Answer Depends On:

  1. Whether a NT scan was done along with the Dual Marker Test
    • If both NT scan and Dual Marker were completed and found low risk, and there’s no family or clinical history of concern, Quadruple Marker may not be mandatory.
  1. If the NT scan was missed or unclear
    • In that case, the Quadruple Marker Test may be recommended for additional reassurance.
  1. If any soft markers were found in anomaly scan
    • Your doctor may suggest a Quadruple Marker Test or NIPT to rule out chromosomal issues.
  1. If first-trimester screening was missed altogether
    • Then a Quadruple Marker Test is strongly advised in the second trimester.

Role of Genetic Counselling

At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, we offer individualized counselling to guide you through your screening options. Our goal is to:

  • Help you understand what your results mean
  • Avoid unnecessary tests
  • Recommend only what’s truly needed for your pregnancy

So, What’s the Final Take?

If you had a normal Dual Marker Test with an NT scan, and no risk indicators show up in your second-trimester scans, your doctor may not recommend a Quadruple Marker Test.

However, if there are missed screenings, borderline results, or structural findings, a Quadruple Marker Test may add significant value.

Why Choose Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata?

  • Experienced fetal medicine consultants and genetic counsellors
  • Accurate and timely prenatal testing
  • Personalized risk assessment plans
  • Trusted center for pregnancy care in Eastern India

Still Confused?

📞 Talk to our fetal medicine team today
📍 Visit Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata for expert guidance
152, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026. Rashbehari crossing, Near Kalighat Metro Gate No. 9

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Missed the Dual Marker Test? Here’s Why NIPT Was Recommended

Missed the Dual Marker Test Here's Why NIPT Was Recommended

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it also comes with important checkpoints to ensure the health of the mother and the baby. One of the crucial tests during the first trimester of pregnancy is the Dual Marker Test. But what happens if this test is missed? In many such cases, doctors recommend NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) as the next best step.

At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, we often address this concern for expecting mothers who miss their first-trimester screening window.

What Is the Dual Marker Test?

The Dual Marker Test is a first-trimester prenatal screening that assesses the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) and Trisomy 18. It’s typically done between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy and combines two blood markers (β-hCG and PAPP-A) with ultrasound findings (NT scan).

Why Is It Important?

This test provides early insights into the baby’s genetic health. If the results show a high risk, further diagnostic procedures like chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis may be considered.

Missing this window may delay important decisions, which is why an alternative screening method is often suggested — NIPT.

What Happens If the Dual Marker Test Is Missed?

There are several reasons why expecting mothers may miss this test:

  • Late registration of pregnancy
  • Irregular menstrual cycles causing confusion in gestational age
  • Lack of awareness or delayed referral

In such cases, NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) becomes a reliable and advanced alternative.

Why NIPT Is Recommended

NIPT is a highly accurate, non-invasive blood test that analyzes fetal DNA in the mother’s blood to detect chromosomal abnormalities. It can be done as early as 10 weeks of gestation and upto term and is especially useful if the dual marker test is missed.

Advantages of NIPT:

  • Over 99% accuracy for detecting common chromosomal conditions
  • Safe for both mother and baby
  • No risk of miscarriage, unlike invasive tests
  • Can be done up to 22 weeks

Is NIPT a Replacement for the Dual Marker Test?

While NIPT is more accurate, it’s important to understand that it doesn’t assess everything the dual marker and NT scan do, such as structural abnormalities. Ideally, NIPT is complemented with a detailed anomaly scan around 18-20 weeks.

What Should You Do Next?

If you’ve missed the dual marker test, don’t panic. Consult a fetal medicine specialist at a reputed centre like the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, where expert counselling and tailored testing strategies are offered based on gestational age and medical history.

Why Choose Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata?

  • Experienced team of fetal medicine specialists and genetic counsellors
  • Advanced testing facilities including NIPT, NT scan, anomaly scan, and more
  • Personalized care plans for high-risk pregnancies
  • Centrally located and well-connected clinic in Kolkata

Missing a prenatal test can feel overwhelming, but with medical advancements like NIPT, you still have access to accurate and safe screening options. At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, we help you make informed decisions for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Looking for guidance?

📞 Call us today to speak to a fetal medicine expert
📍 Visit the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata

152, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, Kolkata, West Bengal 700026. Rashbehari crossing, Near Kalighat Metro Gate No. 9

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Which Scan in Pregnancy Tells Us if the Unborn Has Down Syndrome?

Scan in pregnancy

Down syndrome is a common genetic disorder caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. Early detection during pregnancy helps parents prepare and make informed decisions. This article explains which scans can detect Down syndrome and how they work.

Understanding Down Syndrome Screening

Down syndrome cannot be diagnosed with a standard ultrasound scan alone. Instead, specific screening tests and diagnostic procedures are used during pregnancy.

Key Scans and Tests for Down Syndrome Detection

  • Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan (11-14 weeks):
    This ultrasound measures the fluid-filled space at the back of the fetus’s neck. A thicker NT measurement may indicate a higher risk for Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities. It is part of the first-trimester combined screening test.
  • First-Trimester Combined Screening:
    Combines NT measurement with maternal blood tests measuring pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and free beta-hCG. Together, they provide a risk estimate for Down syndrome.
  • Second-Trimester Quadruple (Quad) Test (15-20 weeks):
    A blood test measuring four substances in the mother’s blood: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), hCG, estriol, and inhibin-A. It helps assess the risk of Down syndrome.
  • Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT):
    A blood test analysing fetal DNA in the mother’s blood to detect chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome, with high accuracy.
  • Diagnostic Tests:
    If screening tests show high risk, diagnostic tests like Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) or Amniocentesis provide a definitive diagnosis by analysing fetal chromosomes.

Why Regular Ultrasound Alone Is Not Enough

Routine ultrasounds can show physical markers that raise suspicion but cannot confirm Down syndrome. Specialized scans combined with blood tests and NIPT offer reliable screening.

When Should These Scans Be Done?

Test/Scan

Timing

Purpose

NT Scan + First Trimester Blood Test

11 to 14 weeks

Initial risk assessment

Quad Test

15 to 20 weeks

Second trimester risk screening

NIPT

As early as 9 weeks

High accuracy non-invasive screening

CVS or Amniocentesis

10-13 weeks (CVS) / 15-20 weeks (Amnio)

Diagnostic confirmation

The NT scan, combined with blood tests and NIPT, is the cornerstone of Down syndrome screening during pregnancy. For a definitive diagnosis, invasive diagnostic tests are necessary. Early screening and counselling empower parents with knowledge and choices.

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Does Lack of Preconception Counselling Increase Risk of Miscarriages and Birth Defects?

153-preconception counselling

Preparing for a healthy pregnancy goes beyond just planning the timing—it involves proactive measures that optimize health and reduce risks before conception. This is where preconception counselling plays a vital role. Unfortunately, skipping this crucial step can increase the chances of pregnancy complications such as miscarriages and birth defects. This article explores why preconception care matters and how its absence can impact pregnancy outcomes.

What is Preconception Counselling?

Preconception counselling is a comprehensive medical consultation carried out before pregnancy. It involves:

  • A thorough medical evaluation to identify and manage any existing health conditions.
  • Lifestyle assessment focusing on diet, exercise, and avoidance of harmful substances.
  • Genetic counselling to assess inherited risks based on family history.
  • Planning for necessary prenatal vitamins (like folic acid) and vaccinations to protect both mother and baby.

This preparation equips couples with the best possible foundation for a healthy pregnancy.

How Lack of Preconception Care Can Impact Pregnancy

When preconception counselling is missed or neglected, several risks may go unaddressed, increasing chances of adverse outcomes:

  • Uncontrolled Chronic Conditions:
    Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and thyroid disorders, if not well-managed before conception, significantly increase the risk of miscarriage and complications during pregnancy.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies:
    Inadequate intake of folic acid before and during early pregnancy is strongly linked to neural tube defects and other congenital malformations.
  • Undiagnosed Genetic Risks:
    Without genetic counselling, couples may be unaware of inherited conditions they could pass on, leading to a higher chance of birth defects or genetic disorders in the baby.
  • Exposure to Harmful Substances:
    Lack of guidance on avoiding smoking, alcohol, and certain medications can lead to fetal harm or developmental problems.
  • Untreated Infections:
    Infections such as rubella, toxoplasmosis, and cytomegalovirus, if not detected and treated before pregnancy, may cause severe fetal abnormalities.

Benefits of Preconception Counselling

Engaging in preconception care offers multiple advantages:

  • Improved Pregnancy Outcomes:
    Proactive health management reduces complications and promotes smoother pregnancies.
  • Reduced Risk of Miscarriage and Birth Defects:
    Identifying and addressing risks early helps prevent many avoidable problems.
  • Education on Healthy Behaviours:
    Parents learn about lifestyle choices that support fetal health and wellbeing.
  • Early Identification and Management of Health Issues:
    Medical conditions can be optimized before pregnancy to ensure safer outcomes.

 

While not all miscarriages or birth defects can be prevented, preconception counselling is a powerful tool that significantly lowers risks and empowers prospective parents. Women planning pregnancy are encouraged to seek this counselling to maximize their chances of having a healthy baby and a safe pregnancy journey.

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How Many Miscarriages Should Be Considered as Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)?

How to Manage a High Risk Pregnancy

Experiencing a miscarriage is heart-breaking. When multiple miscarriages occur, it may indicate recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). Understanding what constitutes RPL helps in seeking proper diagnosis and treatment.

What is Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)?

RPL is traditionally defined as having two or more consecutive miscarriages before 20 weeks of gestation. Some guidelines consider three or more losses.

Causes of RPL

  • Genetic abnormalities: Chromosomal issues in either parent or fetus.
  • Anatomical problems: Uterine abnormalities like septum or fibroids.
  • Hormonal imbalances: Thyroid disorders, PCOS.
  • Immune factors: Antiphospholipid syndrome, autoimmune diseases.
  • Infections: Chronic infections impacting pregnancy.
  • Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive caffeine, and obesity.

Diagnosis and Testing

  • Detailed medical history and physical exam.
  • Blood tests for hormonal and immune markers.
  • Genetic testing of parents and sometimes fetal tissue.
  • Imaging to assess uterine anatomy.

Treatment Options

  • Correcting hormonal imbalances or thyroid disorders.
  • Surgical correction of uterine anomalies.
  • Blood-thinning medications for immune causes.
  • Lifestyle changes to improve overall health.

If you have had two or more miscarriages, consulting a specialist is important to identify causes and plan management. Early intervention can improve chances of successful pregnancy.

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How to Manage a High Risk Pregnancy

How to Manage a High Risk Pregnancy

A high-risk pregnancy is one that poses potential health risks to the mother, baby, or both. Proper management of these pregnancies is crucial for the best possible outcome. This article explains how high-risk pregnancies are managed and what expecting mothers can do.

What Defines a High-Risk Pregnancy?

High-risk pregnancies may arise due to maternal age, pre-existing health conditions, pregnancy complications, or fetal issues. Examples include:

  • Diabetes or hypertension
  • Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets)
  • History of miscarriage or preterm birth
  • Advanced maternal age (35 years or older)
  • Placenta previa or other placental issues

Steps in Managing High-Risk Pregnancy

  • Regular Monitoring: Frequent prenatal visits with specialized ultrasounds (like fetal echo, growth scans) and lab tests.
  • Specialist Care: Referral to a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist or high-risk pregnancy clinic.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Balanced diet, appropriate physical activity, stress management, and avoiding harmful substances.
  • Medications and Supplements: Managing existing conditions and supplementing with folic acid, iron, or others as needed.
  • Birth Planning: Coordinated plan for delivery, possibly including early delivery or caesarean section depending on the condition.

Role of the Mother

  • Follow medical advice strictly.
  • Attend all scheduled appointments.
  • Monitor symptoms and report any concerns immediately.
  • Maintain healthy habits and seek support for emotional wellbeing.

While a high-risk pregnancy needs more care and attention, with proper management, many mothers deliver healthy babies. Close collaboration with healthcare providers is key.

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Worried After a Positive Pregnancy Test? How the Early Viability Scan Brings Peace of Mind

Worried After a Positive Pregnancy Test How the Early Viability Scan Brings Peace of Mind

Finding out you’re pregnant is an emotional milestone, often filled with both excitement and anxiety. It’s completely normal for expecting parents to feel worried about the early progress of their pregnancy. Thankfully, the early viability scan serves as a crucial checkpoint, providing reassurance and important medical insights during this delicate phase.

What is an Early Viability Scan?

An early viability scan is a specialized ultrasound performed between 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy. It is designed to:

  • Confirm that the pregnancy is located inside the uterus, ruling out dangerous conditions like ectopic pregnancy.
  • Detect the presence of a fetal heartbeat, which is a strong indicator of a viable pregnancy.
  • Estimate the gestational age to help predict the due date accurately.
  • Identify the possibility of multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.) early on.

Why is the Early Viability Scan Important?

This scan plays a vital role in the early stages of pregnancy for several reasons:

  • Confirm Intrauterine Pregnancy:
    The scan confirms that the embryo is developing inside the uterus. Detecting an ectopic pregnancy (where the embryo implants outside the uterus) early is critical, as it can be life-threatening if untreated.
  • Detect Multiple Pregnancies:
    It helps identify twins or higher-order multiples, allowing healthcare providers to plan for the specific needs and risks of multiple pregnancies.
  • Check Fetal Heartbeat:
    Seeing and hearing the fetal heartbeat during the scan is one of the earliest signs that the pregnancy is progressing well, significantly reducing anxiety for parents.
  • Estimate Gestational Age Accurately:
    Early dating of pregnancy is more precise with this scan, which is important for scheduling future tests and planning prenatal care.

How the Early Viability Scan Helps Manage Anxiety

  • Visual Confirmation:
    Seeing the baby on the screen makes the pregnancy more real and reassuring for many parents.
  • Early Medical Guidance:
    If any concerns arise during the scan, doctors can provide timely advice and interventions.
  • Empowerment Through Knowledge:
    Understanding what is happening inside the womb helps reduce fear and uncertainty, replacing it with confidence and calm.

Tips for Expecting Parents During Early Pregnancy

  • Stay Positive but Prepared:
    Remember that sometimes follow-up scans are needed to monitor pregnancy progression. This is normal and not always a sign of problems.
  • Communicate Openly with Your Healthcare Provider:
    Share your concerns and questions; professional guidance can alleviate fears.
  • Avoid Excessive Self-Monitoring or Online Searches:
    While it’s natural to seek information, too much searching can increase anxiety. Rely on trusted medical advice instead.

The early viability scan is an essential milestone in early pregnancy care. It provides vital information about the health and location of the pregnancy, helping parents transition from worry to peace of mind. By confirming that everything is progressing normally, this scan lays the foundation for a confident and healthy pregnancy journey.

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Why the Second Trimester Anomaly Scan Should Never Be Missed in Pregnancy

Why the Second Trimester Anomaly Scan Should Never Be Missed in Pregnancy

The second trimester anomaly scan is a crucial part of prenatal care, typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This detailed ultrasound examination plays a key role in assessing the baby’s development, helping detect any structural abnormalities early. Missing this scan can mean losing a valuable opportunity for early diagnosis and timely intervention.

What is the Second Trimester Anomaly Scan?

Also referred to as the level 2 ultrasound, the anomaly scan goes beyond the basic pregnancy check-up by offering an in-depth look at the fetal anatomy. This includes examination of:

  • The brain and spinal cord
  • The heart and its chambers
  • The facial structure, including the lips and jaw
  • The limbs and digits
  • Major organs like the kidneys, stomach, and bladder
  • Fetal growth measurements to ensure the baby is developing properly
  • The placenta’s position and the amount of amniotic fluid

Why is the Anomaly Scan So Important?

Here are some of the key reasons why you should never skip the second trimester anomaly scan:

  • Detect Congenital Anomalies Early:
    Many birth defects such as congenital heart defects, neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida), and cleft lip and palate, and limb deformities can be diagnosed during this scan. Early detection allows better preparation and possible treatment options.
  • Helps Plan Pregnancy and Delivery:
    If abnormalities are found, doctors can design a detailed care plan for the pregnancy and delivery. For example, some conditions may require delivery at a specialized centre equipped for neonatal surgery or intensive care.
  • Provides Reassurance for Parents:
    Seeing that the baby is growing well and has no detected anomalies offers immense peace of mind and reduces anxiety during pregnancy.
  • Monitors Placental Health and Amniotic Fluid:
    Problems with the placenta or amniotic fluid levels can affect pregnancy outcomes. Detecting these issues early allows timely management to protect both mother and baby.

What Happens If You Skip the Anomaly Scan?

Skipping this important scan can have several implications:

  • Missed Early Diagnosis of Treatable Conditions:
    Without this scan, structural defects might only be found after birth, limiting treatment options and increasing risks.
  • Increased Risk of Being Unprepared:
    Parents and healthcare providers might face unexpected complications during delivery without prior planning.
  • Limited Prenatal Counselling and Support:
    Knowing about fetal conditions early helps families access counselling, make informed decisions, and arrange appropriate care.

When Should You Schedule the Anomaly Scan?

The best time for this scan is between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation when fetal structures are developed enough for detailed assessment. Scheduling within this window ensures accurate and comprehensive evaluation.

The second trimester anomaly scan is a cornerstone of prenatal care. It provides detailed insights into fetal development, helps anticipate potential challenges, and enables optimal pregnancy management. For the health and safety of both mother and baby, this scan should never be missed.

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Myotonic Dystrophy: Symptoms, Genetics, and Pregnancy Implications

Myotonic Dystrophy: Symptoms, Genetics, and Pregnancy Implications

Myotonic dystrophy is a genetic neuromuscular disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and difficulty relaxing muscles after contraction, known as myotonic. This inherited condition affects multiple systems in the body and has important implications for affected individuals and their families—especially women planning pregnancy or currently pregnant. Awareness and proper care are essential for managing this complex disorder.

Causes and Genetics of Myotonic Dystrophy

Myotonic dystrophy is caused by mutations in the DMPK gene (for type 1) or in the CNBP gene (for type 2), leading to abnormal muscle function.

  • It follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, which means if one parent carries the mutation, there is a 50% chance of passing the condition to the child.
  • The severity and symptoms can vary widely even within the same family.
  • There are two main types:
    • Type 1 (DM1) – more common and typically more severe.
    • Type 2 (DM2) – generally milder but still impacts quality of life.

Symptoms of Myotonic Dystrophy

Symptoms can affect various parts of the body and usually develop gradually:

  • Muscle Weakness and Myotonic: Difficulty relaxing muscles after use, stiffness, and progressive weakening.
  • Early-Onset Cataracts: Clouding of the eye lens appearing earlier than usual.
  • Cardiac Conduction Defects: Irregular heart rhythms or arrhythmias that can require medical attention.
  • Respiratory Difficulties: Due to weakened respiratory muscles.
  • Cognitive and Learning Challenges: Some individuals may experience mild intellectual disabilities or learning difficulties.
  • Other Symptoms: Fatigue, swallowing difficulties, and hormonal imbalances.

Implications of Myotonic Dystrophy During Pregnancy

Pregnancy in women with myotonic dystrophy requires special attention because of the increased risk of complications:

  • Monitoring for Preterm Labour and Miscarriage: Women with DM have a higher risk of these issues.
  • Genetic Counselling: Essential for understanding the inheritance pattern and the likelihood of passing the disorder to the baby.
  • Prenatal Testing Options:
    • Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) between 10-13 weeks or
    • Amniocentesis between 15-20 weeks can detect whether the fetus has inherited the condition.
  • Fetal Monitoring: Regular ultrasounds and fetal assessments to ensure healthy development.

Management and Care for Myotonic Dystrophy

A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for managing myotonic dystrophy effectively:

  • Neurologists provide muscle and nerve care.
  • Cardiologists monitor and manage heart-related issues.
  • Obstetricians oversee pregnancy health and fetal monitoring.
  • Genetic Counsellors help families understand risks and make informed reproductive choices.
  • Symptomatic Treatments: There is no cure, but therapies exist to improve muscle strength, reduce myotonic, and manage heart conditions.
  • Regular Prenatal Check-ups: Close monitoring is necessary to detect and manage any pregnancy complications early.

Myotonic dystrophy is a complex inherited disorder that can significantly impact pregnancy and family planning. Early diagnosis, genetic counselling, and coordinated medical care are key to managing the condition and supporting affected families. Women with myotonic dystrophy should work closely with their healthcare team to ensure the best outcomes for themselves and their babies.

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Why Transvaginal Scan (TVS) Is Done in Early Pregnancy Over Abdominal Ultrasound (USG)

transvaginal scan.

Early pregnancy is a delicate and crucial period that requires accurate monitoring to ensure the health of both mother and baby. Ultrasound scans play an essential role in confirming pregnancy and assessing early fetal development. Among the different ultrasound methods, Transvaginal Scan (TVS) and Abdominal Ultrasound (USG) are commonly used. However, in the first trimester, TVS is often preferred. This article explores what TVS is, why it is done over abdominal USG in early pregnancy, and its advantages.

What is a Transvaginal Scan (TVS)?

A Transvaginal Scan (TVS) is an ultrasound technique where a small, specially designed probe is gently inserted into the vagina. This approach places the probe closer to the uterus, providing clearer and more detailed images of the early pregnancy structures such as the gestational sac, yolk sac, and fetal pole.

Unlike the abdominal ultrasound (USG), where the probe is moved over the abdomen, TVS bypasses the abdominal wall and bladder, which can obscure or reduce the clarity of early pregnancy images.

Advantages of TVS Over Abdominal Ultrasound in Early Pregnancy

TVS offers several critical advantages during the early weeks of pregnancy, typically up to 12 weeks gestation:

  • Earlier Pregnancy Detection:
    TVS can detect pregnancy as early as 4 to 5 weeks, identifying the gestational sac and fetal pole much earlier than abdominal USG, which usually performs better after 6 weeks.
  • Sharper, Clearer Images:
    Because the probe is closer to the uterus, TVS produces high-resolution images that allow for detailed visualization of early fetal structures, helping in accurate dating and viability assessment.
  • Better Fetal Heartbeat Detection:
    Fetal cardiac activity can be detected earlier and with greater accuracy via TVS, often as early as 5.5 to 6 weeks, which is critical for confirming a viable pregnancy.
  • Early Complication Assessment:
    TVS is the gold standard for diagnosing potential early pregnancy complications such as:

    • Ectopic pregnancy (implantation outside the uterus)
    • Threatened miscarriage
    • Subchorionic haemorrhage
  • Assessment of Uterine and Ovarian Health:
    It allows detailed examination of the uterus, cervix, and ovaries, helping identify fibroids, cysts, or other abnormalities that may affect pregnancy.

When is TVS Recommended?

Your doctor may advise a transvaginal scan in early pregnancy under the following circumstances:

  • Confirmation of Early Pregnancy: To verify pregnancy location and viability.
  • Vaginal Bleeding or Abdominal Pain: To assess risks such as miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
  • Inconclusive Abdominal Ultrasound Results: When abdominal USG does not provide clear information.
  • History of Previous Pregnancy Complications: To closely monitor pregnancy development.
  • High-Risk Pregnancies: To ensure early and precise fetal monitoring.

What to Expect During a TVS?

  • The procedure is generally safe and painless.
  • The probe is covered with a sterile sheath and lubricated before insertion.
  • It usually takes 10-20 minutes.
  • No special preparation is required, but a full bladder is generally not needed (unlike abdominal USG).

In early pregnancy, TVS is preferred over abdominal ultrasound due to its superior ability to detect pregnancy earlier, provide clearer images, and identify potential complications promptly. This early and accurate assessment enables better monitoring and management, ensuring the best possible care for mother and baby. If you experience any symptoms or require early pregnancy evaluation, consult your healthcare provider about the benefits of a transvaginal scan.

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