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Pregnant with Monochorionic Twins? Expert Care for a Safe and Healthy Pregnancy

regnant with Monochorionic Twins

Carrying monochorionic twins is a rare and exciting experience, but it also comes with unique challenges that require specialized monitoring and care. Since identical twins share the same placenta, they are at a higher risk of certain pregnancy complications, making regular fetal monitoring essential. At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, we offer advanced prenatal screening and expert fetal care to ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and babies.

Understanding Monochorionic Twins

Monochorionic twins develop when a single fertilized egg splits into two embryos, resulting in genetically identical babies. Unlike fraternal twins, monochorionic twins share a placenta, which increases the risk of specific complications, including:

🔹 Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) – Unequal blood flow between twins due to shared placental circulation, requiring early detection.
🔹 Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction (sIUGR) – One twin may receive fewer nutrients, leading to restricted growth.
🔹 Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS) – A rare condition where one twin becomes anemic while the other has an excess of red blood cells.
🔹 Cord Entanglement (in Monochorionic-Monoamniotic Twins) – Increased risk in twins sharing the same amniotic sac.

Why Regular Monitoring is Essential

Early detection of complications is key to managing risks and improving outcomes. Our fetal medicine specialists in Kolkata offer:

✔ First Trimester Screening – To assess risk factors and confirm chorionicity (whether twins share a placenta).
✔ Frequent Growth and Doppler Scans – To monitor fetal well-being and detect early signs of TTTS or sIUGR.
✔ Fetal Echocardiography – To assess heart development, as monochorionic twins have a higher risk of congenital heart defects.
✔ Expert Second Opinions & Genetic Counselling – Helping parents make informed decisions regarding their pregnancy.

Why Choose Us for Twin Pregnancy Care?

✔ Best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata for expert twin pregnancy management.
✔ State-of-the-art fetal care clinic in Kolkata for high-risk pregnancy care.
✔ Advanced fetal medicine services in Kolkata to ensure the safest outcomes.
✔ Dedicated prenatal ultrasound clinic in Kolkata for frequent and specialized monitoring.

Book a Consultation with Our Fetal Medicine Experts

If you are expecting identical twins, don’t leave your pregnancy to chance. Get expert guidance and specialized care at our fetal diagnostics center in Kolkata to ensure a safe and healthy journey for you and your babies.

💙 Your Twins Deserve the Best Care! 💙

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Worried About Your First Trimester Screening Results? Don’t Stress

Worried About Your First Trimester Screening Results

The first trimester screening is a crucial test that helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down Syndrome, Trisomy 18, and Trisomy 13. While receiving unexpected results can be overwhelming, it’s important to remember that screening tests are not diagnostic—they only indicate risk levels. If you are feeling anxious about your first trimester screening results, seeking a second opinion from a fetal medicine specialist can provide clarity and reassurance.

Why Get a Second Opinion?

🔹 Confirm Accuracy – Sometimes, factors like maternal age, incorrect gestational age, or certain health conditions can influence screening results.
🔹 Comprehensive Evaluation – An expert fetal medicine doctor can recommend further tests such as NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) or diagnostic procedures like CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling) or Amniocentesis for confirmation.
🔹 Personalized Counselling – Get a detailed explanation of your results, risks, and next steps with genetic counselling in Kolkata.

Advanced Diagnostic Options at Our Fetal Medicine Center

✔ NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) – A highly accurate blood test to screen for chromosomal abnormalities.
✔ Fetal Echocardiography – A specialized scan to check for congenital heart defects.
✔ Detailed Ultrasounds & Anomaly Scan – Helps detect structural abnormalities early.
✔ Genetic Counselling – Expert guidance to help you make informed decisions.

At our fetal medicine clinic in Kolkata, we provide comprehensive prenatal diagnostics to ensure the best possible care for you and your baby.

Why Choose Us for a Second Opinion?

✔ Best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata with expertise in high-risk pregnancies.
✔ Advanced fetal medicine services in Kolkata for precise and reliable screenings.
✔ A dedicated fetal diagnostics center in Kolkata for in-depth evaluation.
✔ Expert maternal-fetal care in Kolkata to guide you at every step.

Book Your Second Opinion Consultation Today!

Don’t let uncertainty and stress take over—get the right advice from experts at our fetal care clinic in Kolkata. A second opinion can bring clarity and peace of mind!

💙 Your Baby’s Health is Our Priority! 💙

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Essential Pregnancy Scans You Should Take for a Healthy Baby

Essential Pregnancy Scans You Should Take for a Healthy Baby

Prenatal ultrasounds play a vital role in monitoring fetal development and maternal health throughout pregnancy. These scans help detect abnormalities, assess growth, and ensure timely medical intervention if needed. Here are three essential pregnancy scans every expectant mother should undergo:

1️⃣ NT & NB Scan (Nuchal Translucency & Nasal Bone Scan) – First Trimester

When? 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy
Why? This scan is part of first-trimester screening to detect the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13).

🔹 NT (Nuchal Translucency) Scan – Measures the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck.
🔹 NB (Nasal Bone) Scan – Checks if the nasal bone is properly formed, as its absence can indicate genetic concerns.

👉 This scan is usually accompanied by pre-eclampsia screening and a maternal blood test for better accuracy.

✅ Performed at our prenatal ultrasound clinic in Kolkata under the guidance of expert fetal medicine specialists.

2️⃣ Anomaly Scan – Second Trimester

When? 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy
Why? Also known as the Level II ultrasound, this detailed scan examines:
✔ Baby’s organs, brain, spine, and heart
✔ Facial features and limbs
✔ Placental position and amniotic fluid levels

👉 The anomaly scan in Kolkata is crucial for detecting structural abnormalities and guiding high-risk pregnancy care.

✅ If necessary, additional tests like fetal echocardiography in Kolkata may be recommended for heart-related concerns.

3️⃣ Growth Scan & Doppler Study – Third Trimester

When? 28 to 40 weeks of pregnancy
Why? These scans monitor:
✔ Fetal growth & weight
✔ Placental health and blood flow
✔ Oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby

🔹 Doppler Ultrasound measures the blood flow in the umbilical cord, brain, and heart, ensuring the baby is getting adequate nutrients and oxygen.
🔹 Helps assess conditions like fetal growth restriction (FGR) and guides delivery planning.

✅ Available at our fetal diagnostics center in Kolkata, ensuring best fetal care in Kolkata for both mother and baby.

Why Choose Our Fetal Medicine Center?

✔ Best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata for expert guidance
✔ Advanced fetal medicine services in Kolkata for high-risk pregnancies
✔ Maternal-fetal care in Kolkata for comprehensive support
✔ Genetic counselling in Kolkata for informed decision-making

Book Your Pregnancy Scans Today!

Ensure the best care for you and your baby with essential pregnancy scans at our fetal care clinic in Kolkata. Early detection leads to better outcomes!

💙 Your Baby’s Health Starts Here! 💙

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Pre-eclampsia Screening: Early Detection for a Healthier Pregnancy

Pre-eclampsia Screening Early Detection for a Healthier Pregnancy

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, affecting 5 to 8% of pregnancies. It can lead to complications for both the mother and baby if left undiagnosed. However, early screening in the first trimester—done at the time of the Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan—can help identify women at risk and allow for timely medical intervention.

At our fetal medicine center in Kolkata, we offer advanced prenatal screening for pre-eclampsia to ensure optimal maternal and fetal health.

What is Pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can cause:
✔ High blood pressure (hypertension)
✔ Protein in the urine (proteinuria)
✔ Swelling in the hands, face, and legs
✔ Severe headaches and vision disturbances
✔ Complications affecting the liver, kidneys, and placenta

First Trimester Pre-eclampsia Screening

Pre-eclampsia screening is done between 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy as part of the NT scan and first trimester combined screening at our prenatal ultrasound clinic in Kolkata. This screening assesses:

  • Maternal risk factors (age, weight, medical history)
  • Blood pressure measurements
  • Uterine artery Doppler scan (to check blood flow to the placenta)
  • Placental growth factor (PlGF) and PAPP-A blood tests

Why is Early Screening Important?

✅ Early Risk Identification – Helps predict the likelihood of developing pre-eclampsia.
✅ Timely Preventive Measures – Low-dose aspirin and lifestyle adjustments can reduce risks.
✅ Better Pregnancy Monitoring – Women identified as high-risk receive specialized maternal-fetal care in Kolkata.
✅ Prevention of Severe Complications – Reduces risks of preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and organ complications.

Who Should Get Screened?

Screening is especially recommended for women with:

  • First pregnancy
  • History of pre-eclampsia in previous pregnancies
  • High blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease
  • Obesity or advanced maternal age
  • Multiple pregnancies (twins or more)

Comprehensive Fetal & Maternal Care in Kolkata

Our fetal medicine specialists in Kolkata provide high-risk pregnancy care through advanced fetal medicine services like:
🔹 Anomaly scan in Kolkata for fetal health assessment
🔹 Fetal echocardiography in Kolkata to detect heart defects
🔹 Fetal growth monitoring for at-risk pregnancies
🔹 Genetic counselling in Kolkata for personalized guidance

Book Your Pre-eclampsia Screening Today!

Early detection can make all the difference! Visit our fetal care clinic in Kolkata for pregnancy health screening and expert evaluation by the best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata.

Your Health & Your Baby’s Well-Being Matter! 💙

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Amniocentesis Test blog page Doppler Test Fetal Medicine Pregnancy Test Thalassemia

First Trimester Combined Screening: Early Detection for a Healthy Pregnancy

First Trimester Combined Screening Early Detection for a Healthy Pregnancy

First Trimester Combined Screening (FTCS) is a crucial prenatal test conducted between 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13). This non-invasive screening combines a blood test and nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound to provide essential insights into the baby’s health.

At our fetal medicine center in Kolkata, we offer advanced prenatal screening conducted by expert fetal medicine specialists to ensure early detection and timely intervention.

What Does First Trimester Combined Screening Include?

FTCS consists of two key components:

1. Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan

This specialized ultrasound measures the fluid-filled space at the back of the baby’s neck. An increased NT measurement may indicate a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities or congenital heart defects. The anomaly scan in Kolkata and fetal echocardiography in Kolkata may be recommended for further evaluation.

2. Maternal Blood Test

A blood sample is analyzed for two pregnancy-related proteins:
✔ Free Beta-hCG: Higher levels may indicate an increased risk of chromosomal conditions.
✔ PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A): Low levels may be linked to genetic disorders.

The results of these tests, combined with maternal age and other risk factors, help assess the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities.

Why is First Trimester Screening Important?

  • Early Risk Assessment: Detects potential genetic conditions in the first trimester.
  • Non-Invasive and Safe: No harm to the baby or mother.
  • Helps in Decision-Making: Parents can opt for further prenatal diagnostics in Kolkata, such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS), or Amniocentesis, if needed.
  • Guides High-Risk Pregnancy Care: If a high risk is detected, specialized maternal-fetal care in Kolkata can be planned.

Who Should Get This Screening?

FTS is recommended for all pregnant women, particularly those:
✅ With a history of chromosomal disorders
✅ Who have had abnormal ultrasound findings
✅ Who want early insights into fetal health

Expert Fetal Care in Kolkata

Our fetal diagnostics center in Kolkata offers state-of-the-art pregnancy health screening and fetal growth monitoring under the guidance of the best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata. If necessary, our experts also provide genetic counselling in Kolkata to help parents understand their options.

Book Your Screening Today!

Ensure the best fetal care in Kolkata with First Trimester Combined Screening at our fetal medicine clinic in Kolkata. Schedule your appointment with our high-risk pregnancy specialist in Kolkata for expert evaluation and peace of mind.

Your baby’s health starts with early detection and the right care. 💙

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Exploring Thalassemia in Fetal Medicine

Navigating Thalassemia in Fetal Medicine Exploring Thalassemia in Fetal Medicine: A Guide for Expectant Parents

Thalassemia, a group of inherited blood disorders affecting hemoglobin production, poses significant challenges in fetal medicine. This article aims to delve into the intricacies of thalassemia from the perspective of fetal medicine, exploring its genetic basis, diagnostic approaches, and evolving treatment strategies.

Understanding Thalassemia

Thalassemia is characterized by abnormal hemoglobin synthesis, leading to anemia. Fetal medicine specialists often encounter cases where one or both parents are carriers of thalassemia gene mutations. The severity of the disorder varies, ranging from thalassemia trait carriers with minimal symptoms to thalassemia major, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Genetics and Inheritance

Thalassemia is primarily inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Two types of globin chains constitute hemoglobin: alpha and beta. Thalassemia is categorized into alpha and beta thalassemias based on which chain is affected. Fetal medicine specialists play a crucial role in identifying carriers and assessing the risk of thalassemia in offspring through genetic counseling and prenatal testing.

Understanding Thalassemia Inheritance and Diagnosis:

Genetic Complexity:

  • Thalassemia, with its intricate genetic basis, involves mutations in the genes responsible for hemoglobin production.
  • Fetal medicine specialists delve into the nuanced genetic landscape, explaining to families the complexities of autosomal recessive inheritance and the specific mutations associated with alpha and beta thalassemias.

Alpha and Beta Thalassemia Distinctions:

  • Fetal medicine specialists delineate the differences between alpha and beta thalassemias, emphasizing the distinct genetic alterations in the alpha and beta globin genes.
  • This nuanced understanding guides diagnostic approaches and helps tailor interventions based on the specific type of thalassemia.

Carrier Screening Advancements:

  • Fetal medicine incorporates advancements in carrier screening techniques to identify individuals at risk.
  • Expanded carrier screening panels, including a wide range of genetic mutations, contribute to a more comprehensive assessment of thalassemia risk, allowing for targeted genetic counseling and informed decision-making for prospective parents.

Prenatal Genetic Testing Modalities:

  • Fetal medicine employs an array of prenatal genetic testing modalities to diagnose thalassemia during pregnancy.
  • Technologies such as next-generation sequencing and advanced imaging techniques enhance the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis, providing crucial information for families and guiding decisions regarding intervention and treatment.

Early Intervention Possibilities:

  • Identification of thalassemia carriers in the early stages of pregnancy allows for proactive and personalized management strategies.
  • Fetal medicine specialists collaborate with obstetricians to offer early interventions, potentially mitigating the impact of thalassemia on the developing fetus through advancements like in utero transfusions or cord blood transplantation.

Precision Medicine Approaches:

  • With the advent of precision medicine, fetal medicine specialists explore individualized treatment approaches based on the specific genetic mutations present.
  • This tailored approach aims to optimize outcomes by addressing the unique genetic profile of each case, showcasing the evolving landscape of personalized medicine in thalassemia management.

Integration of Non-Invasive Techniques:

  • Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) continues to evolve as a valuable tool in thalassemia diagnosis.
  • Fetal medicine specialists leverage the advancements in NIPT, combining it with traditional diagnostic methods for a comprehensive assessment of thalassemia risk without invasive procedures.

Diagnostic Approaches in Fetal Medicine

  • Preconception Screening: Fetal medicine often begins its involvement with thalassemia through preconception screening, especially in populations with a high carrier rate. Identifying carriers helps couples make informed decisions about family planning.
  • Prenatal Diagnosis: For couples identified as carriers, prenatal diagnosis becomes crucial. Techniques such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis allow for the assessment of fetal DNA, enabling early detection of thalassemia.
  • Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): Advances in fetal medicine include non-invasive prenatal testing, which analyzes cell-free fetal DNA circulating in the mother’s blood. While not a primary diagnostic tool for thalassemia, NIPT can indicate a risk, prompting further diagnostic procedures.

Management and Treatment in Fetal Medicine

  • Early Intervention: Fetal medicine specialists collaborate with obstetricians to provide early intervention strategies. This may involve transfusions in utero for severe cases, optimizing fetal outcomes.
  • Cord Blood Transplantation: In cases where thalassemia is diagnosed early, fetal medicine opens avenues for cord blood transplantation, potentially curing the condition before birth.
  • Gene Therapy: Ongoing research in fetal medicine explores gene therapy as a potential treatment for thalassemia. CRISPR technology and other genetic editing tools offer promise in correcting or mitigating the genetic mutations responsible for thalassemia.

Genetic Counseling and Family Support

Fetal medicine specialists engage in comprehensive genetic counseling, ensuring families understand the implications of thalassemia and their reproductive options. This support extends beyond diagnosis, addressing emotional and ethical considerations associated with genetic conditions.

Thalassemia in fetal medicine requires a multidisciplinary approach, combining genetic expertise, prenatal diagnostics, and evolving treatment modalities. As research progresses, fetal medicine continues to play a pivotal role in navigating thalassemia, offering hope for affected families and contributing to the broader landscape of genetic medicine.

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Ways Thalassemia Can Impact Pregnancy and Family Planning

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Blood-related genetic problems are a complex issue that can affect one’s family planning. Thalassemia is a common blood transfused disease that passes on from the parent to the child. It is transmitted by mutated haemoglobin cells. In India, around 10000 to 15000 babies are born with this problem.

More About Thalassemia:

Thalassemia, being an inherited medical condition, affects an infant badly. The body suffers from genetic mutation, where it cannot produce enough haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a protein structure in RBC responsible for carrying and supplying Oxygen to different body parts.

Symptoms of Thalassemia:

Conducting a thalassemia test of both parents is crucial before conceiving. The haemoglobin forming DNA of the thalassemia patients mutates in this problem. One can identify it through different symptoms, including:

  • Fatigue
  • Dark urine
  • Abnormal growth of the child
  • Yellow or pale skin
  • Deformities in facial structure

Causes of Thalassemia and its Testing:

The haemoglobin in the RBC is formed of two identical chains of proteins. These are identified as Alpha and Beta. Thalassemia is categorised into two parts. One can confirm on which the protein chain is damaged. Therefore, these are known as Alpha Thalassemia and Beta Thalassemia.

One can also classify thalassemia based on its severity. These are broadly classified into three parts:

  • Thalassemia Trait: In this case, one parent possesses an abnormal DNA haemoglobin molecule. The other one may have a normal genetic structure. In such cases, the child will carry the Thalassemia trait with mild anaemia.
  • Thalassemia Major: As the name suggests, this type of thalassemia is a major issue that needs immediate medical attention. The baby of a parent with two defective gene sets may suffer from this problem.
  • Thalassemia Intermedia: It is an intermediate thalassemia condition. Here one needs close health monitoring with periodic check-ups.

If someone thinks that thalassemia is a deterrent to family planning, they are wrong. One can conceive through these effective processes:

  • CVS Testing: It is a vital testing method involving collecting chorionic villi cells from the placenta.
  • Amniocentesis: In this test, the tester collects a small amount of fluid from the amniotic sac. The amniotic fluid surrounding the embryo can effectively indicate the signs of thalassemia.

IFM Fetal Medicine Unit Kolkata

Now that one knows all the details about thalassemia and its effects on family planning; it will be easier to make the right decisions. For better testing assistance, one should contact a reliable source like Institute of Fetal Medicine. We are a premier source in Kolkata for thalassemia tests. For more information, one can visit our website today.

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All You Need To Know About Thalassemia During Pregnancy

Thalassemia Test

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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