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3 Factors to Keep in Mind for 3D Ultrasonography Pregnancy Test

Ultrasonography is a major component of pregnancy tests where the would-be parents can get an image of the unborn foetus. With 2D ultrasonography, it is not possible to determine if any abnormality is present in the foetus. Hence, 3D ultrasonography pregnancy tests are used to determine the same. With the help of 3D ultrasounds, you can get a clear picture of the baby’s exteriors and interiors. Without 3D, a doctor can easily assess the growth of a child. However, the technology is used to check the abnormalities during the growth process of the foetus.

However, there are many concerns regarding the use of ultrasounds on the unborn foetus. Many people believe that the excessive transmission of rays through the scans can lead to congenital disabilities. Hence, getting the ultrasound done by an expert is essential. They know the correct amount of power that should be applied during the scan process to ensure that the unborn foetus is not harmed.

Hence, before you decide to opt for the 3D ultrasound pregnancy test, make sure that you keep these points in mind.

What to keep in mind before opting for a 3D ultrasonography pregnancy test?

Check the Certifications of the Sonographer

For a 3D ultrasound, make sure that you check the certifications of the sonographer before booking your appointment with the same. They must have certifications for performing the test. The person conducting the ultrasound must be capable of getting a clear and good picture of the unborn foetus.

Verify the Cost of the Test

Generally, the commercial cost of performing 4D ultrasounds is quite high. Thus, before you book your appointment, make sure that you verify the cost of the test and compare the cost with different diagnostics centres. Rather than thinking about saving money, make sure that you go for quality and affordability.

Know about the Safety Concerns

Ultrasound rays can be fatal to the foetus – this is a major concern that keeps on crossing the minds of pregnant mothers. If you want to get rid of this stress, make sure that you check the same with the sonographer before opting for the test. They will clarify the process, effects and the side effects of the same.

For the best 3D ultrasonography pregnancy test, book your dates with the Institute of Fetal Medicine. We have the best infrastructural facilities and certified sonographers for the job. Check our website and book your appointment.

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Your Common Queries About Fetal Echocardiography Have Been Answered

Fetal echocardiography is very similar to ultrasounds. Your gynaecologist might advice you to undergo the test during your second trimester to see the function and structure of the child’s heart. The best time to undergo the test is between 18 to 24 weeks. Sound waves are used to understand the structure of the fetus’s heart.

A picture or echocardiogram is created by a machine analysing the sound waves. The doctor can get a clearer image of the baby’s heart which makes it easier for them to assess how the heart is forming and whether it is properly functioning. They can see how blood is flowing through the heart and identify abnormalities in the heartbeat or in blood flow.

When Do Doctors Use Fetal Echocardiography?

Let your doctor decide whether you will require a fetal echocardiogram or not. All pregnant women don’t need it. An experienced ultrasonographer or ultrasound technician will perform the test. The result will be reviewed by someone specialising in paediatric medicine. Though you can also undergo a basic ultrasound to check the development of the baby’s heart, a fetal echocardiogram gives a clearer image of the baby’s heart. Your doctor will advise you to undergo the procedure if the ultrasound test wasn’t conclusive or an abnormal heartbeat was detected in the fetus during the previous test.

Few More Situations When You Might Need A Fetal Echocardiography Test

  • There is a risk of heart abnormality or other heart conditions in the unborn child.

  • You have taken medicines like prescription acne drugs or epilepsy drugs as they are known for causing heart diseases.

  • You have a history of heart disease in your family’s history

  • You are suffering from medical conditions like diabetes, rubella, lupus or phenylketonuria.

  • Your previous child was born with a heart condition

  • You have consumed alcohol or drugs during your pregnancy.

What Do You Mean By Abdominal Echocardiography?

Fetal Echocardiography in Kolkata is quite similar to an ultrasound. The technician conducting the test will ask you to lie down in a straight posture which will expose your belly. They will apply a lubricating jelly so there is no friction while they are moving the ultrasound transducer. The device is used to receive and send sound waves over the skin. The jelly transmits high-frequency sound waves sent by the transducer. You can return to your normal activities after they clean off the jelly.

Since your common queries about fetal echocardiography have been answered, it’s time you get in touch with the experts at IFM Kolkata.

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Know The Common Medical Causes Of Male Infertility

If you and your partner are having regular unprotected sex for almost a year but still you are failing to conceive, the reason might be infertility. Either the male or female might be infertile. Recently, there has been a drastic increase in the total number of male infertility cases. Illnesses, chronic health problems, injuries and lifestyle choices are few common causes of male infertility. You can deal with the situation by getting in touch with an infertility specialist. He will conduct a few tests to know the exact cause of infertility before treating it.

Visiting An Infertility Specialist? Know The 4 Medical Causes Of Male Infertility

  • Varicocele

There are veins which drain the testicle. Varicocele is the condition when the veins drain. It is a very common and irreversible cause of male infertility. Though the exact relation between male infertility and varicoceles is still unknown, it might occur due to abnormal blood flow. The condition reduces the quality and quantity of sperm reproduction.

  • Ejaculation Issues

Retrograde ejaculation is the condition when semen enters the person’s bladder instead of coming out of the penis. Few of the common health conditions that can lead to ejaculation issues are medications, spinal injuries, bladder surgery, diabetes, and urethra.

  • Infection

Infections can also cause male infertility by scarring and blocking the passage through which sperms pass. Few of the common types of infections are inflammation of testicles or the epididymis or sexually transmitted infections like HIV or gonorrhoea. Since all infections don’t lead to permanent testicular damage, it is advisable to get in touch with an infertility specialist in Kolkata.

  • Tumors

The male reproductive organs might also get affected due to non-malignant tumors or cancers. They directly affect the gland responsible for releasing hormones associated with reproduction like the pituitary gland. A person with a tumor often has to undergo chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation, impacting male fertility.

  • Hormone Imbalances

Disorders of the testicles can cause male infertility or lead to abnormality of the hormonal system like pituitary, thyroid, hypothalamus or adrenal glands. There are numerous underlying causes of male hypogonadism (low testosterone) or other hormonal issues. Low testosterone levels can cause andropause or male menopause.

Since there are so many causes of male infertility, it’s time you get in touch with the infertility specialists at IFM Kolkata. They follow medically proven techniques to treat fertility issues in couples of all ages.

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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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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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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.

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Few Things To Avoid During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful phase in every woman’s life. It is one of the greatest gifts of god. Though women have to make some sacrifices during this phase, it is worth the happiness. To ensure your good health and that of your child, you have to get in touch with a fetal medicine specialist. IFM has some of the most experienced, reliable, and dedicated Fetal Medicine Specialists in Kolkata. They will consider your pregnancy complications and let you know whether you have to avoid a few things which can impact you or your unborn child’s health.

Are You Pregnant? Few Things You Should Avoid

  • Alcohol

Though some people believe that consuming a small quantity of alcohol during pregnancy won’t cause much harm, it is advisable to avoid it altogether. When a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, it enters their bloodstream, crosses the placenta and reaches the unborn child. It can impact the developing liver of the baby and stop its growth. The baby might have a low birth weight. Consuming excessive alcohol can also lead to miscarriage.

  • Smoking

Even if you are a chain smoker, quit smoking immediately once you find out that you are pregnant. When a woman smokes during her pregnancy, it increases the chances of giving birth to a baby with low birth weight. There are even a few instances when excessive smoking has led to the baby’s premature birth or been born with respiratory problems. Expecting mother’s smoking habits is also linked to miscarriage.

  • Addictive Drugs

Say no to drugs while you are pregnant, as it can impact the normal functioning of your body even when consumed in small quantities. When you intake drugs during pregnancy, it transfers to the unborn child as well. Drugs cross the placenta and pass down to the baby, irrespective of consuming cannabis, ketamine, ecstasy, cocaine, or other illegal drugs.

  • Caffeine

Every experienced Fetal Medicine Specialist in Kolkata will advise you to avoid caffeine during your pregnancy. High levels of caffeine can lead to a low birth rate or miscarriage. If you are a coffee lover, make sure not to exceed the daily consumption of 200mg of caffeine. You can replace your daily cups of coffee with some healthier drinks or herbal teas.

Avoid the items stated above during your pregnancy and get in touch with a fetal medicine specialist to ensure the birth of a healthy child.

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Know in Detail About the Chorionic Villus Sampling Test

A prenatal test, Chorionic Villus Sampling, also known as Chorionic Villus Biopsy, is done by taking a sample of the body tissue from the mother’s placenta, where it attaches to the uterus wall. The test identify genetic problems like chromosomal abnormalities and more. It detects any issues or diseases during birth.  Usually done between the 10th and 12th week of pregnancy, get it done from the center for Chorionic Villus Sampling Test in Kolkata.

The chorionic villi have the same genetic material as the fetus. The placenta is the structure that gives blood and nutrients to the fetus, taking it from the mother’s body.  Some women do a follow-up blood test between 16 to18 weeks to screen for defects in the neural tube.

Types of CVS Procedure

Transcervical procedure– The catheter is inserted inside the placenta through the cervix to get samples of tissues

Transabdominal process–  The doctors insert a needle through the abdomen and the uterus into the placenta to get tissue samples.

Detection of Problems

The CVS test correctly identifies chromosomal difficulties like Down Syndrome and genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis. Doctors detect other conditions like Sickle Cell Anemia or Tay Sachs disease. The doctors consider this test 98% effective to identify the sex of the baby, further detecting other disorders like muscular dystrophy.

Benefits of the Test

While deciding to take the prenatal test is very personal, it has its advantages.

Accuracy: Unlike the screening processes, CVS is a diagnostic whose results are accurate. Whatever the reports are, know that they will always be correct compared to any other system.

Timings: It is done mostly during the first trimester of the pregnancy. Until this time, the mother can research about her condition in detail.

Management: The test reveals if the baby has any genetic conditions. This can have an impact on the mother’s decision to continue the pregnancy. For some women, this becomes difficult otherwise.

Risks of the Test

One of the bigger risks associated with this test is a miscarriage. The possibilities are less since the doctors interpret it via a statistical lens. This will always reassure you about the test and its safety. Other few risks are infection and Rh Sensitization, which is normal. Also, the 1% chance of getting a false positive with CVS remains.

CVS is safe and reliable; if you get it done from good medical institutes like IFM Kolkata, Studies reveal that the chances of a miscarriage are only 0.22%. Hence, it is no risk at all. You can also ask the doctor about it and assess their skill and experience accordingly.

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Top 3 Benefits Of CVS Test

CVS or Chorionic Villus Sampling is a diagnostic test to check whether a newly developing fetus has any underlying issue or genetic problem. The best time to conduct the best is during the first trimester of pregnancy. Though CVS test is not as common as blood test, ultrasound or urine test, they offer numerous benefits. Choose the right clinic for CVS test in Kolkata and you can rest assured that the baby developing inside your body is well and doesn’t have any parental health problems.

3 Benefits Of CVS Test

  • Detect The Condition Of The Child Before Birth

Generally, the test is conducted during the trimester phase, i.e., before 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy. A small particle of the developing cells is taken to conduct the test. A cell has all the features related to the gene so you can study it to find out whether it has any congenital disability. Early stage detection helps parents to decide whether they want the child or not. They can have better peace of mind if the child is safe and in good health condition.

  • Provide The Child Better Care

If any birth defect or genetic disorder is detected during the test, parents can become ready to provide their children with better care. After all, every parent wants their child to lead a healthy and happy life. If a severe health condition is detected during the test, the mother can start medication in the very initial stage so that the baby is healthy or less defected when he takes birth. The mother might also have to maintain some necessary precautions.

  • Decide About Child Birth

It takes around 7 to 10 days for the test results to come. If a defective child is detected at an early stage, parents will have sufficient time to decide regarding the child’s birth. Sometimes, abortion is beneficial for both the child and the parents. It might become a challenge for a child to survive normally if an incurable defect is detected during the CVS test.

Since there are so many benefits of undergoing CVS test during pregnancy, it’s time you start looking for a clinic offering the test in Kolkata.