A cervical scan is a specialized prenatal examination that measures the length of the cervix to assess the risk of preterm birth. This scan is particularly important for women at high risk, such as those with a history of preterm births, multiple pregnancies, uterine abnormalities, or previous cervical surgery. The Institute of Fetal Medicine (IFM) in Kolkata offers comprehensive cervical scans as part of their extensive fetal health assessment services.
What is a Cervical Scan?
A cervical scan is a transvaginal ultrasound performed to measure the length of the cervix. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina, and its length can be an indicator of the risk for preterm labour. A shorter cervix may suggest a higher likelihood of preterm birth.
Why is a Cervical Scan Important?
- Preventing Preterm Birth: Preterm birth is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Identifying women at risk allows for early interventions that can help prevent preterm labour.
- Monitoring High-Risk Pregnancies: Women with multiple pregnancies, a history of preterm birth, uterine abnormalities, or previous cervical surgery are at a higher risk and benefit significantly from regular cervical scans.
- Guiding Pregnancy Care: The results of a cervical scan can inform decisions about the need for medical interventions, such as progesterone supplements, cervical cerclage (a procedure to close the cervix), or lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of preterm birth.
When is a Cervical Scan Performed?
A cervical scan is usually carried out during the anomaly scan, which typically occurs between 20-24 weeks of pregnancy. However, for women with a history of preterm birth, it may be necessary to begin cervical scans as early as 16 weeks and continue them periodically to monitor changes in cervical length.
The Procedure of a Cervical Scan
The cervical scan is a transvaginal ultrasound, which involves inserting a probe into the vagina. This approach provides a clear and accurate measurement of the cervical length. The procedure is safe, painless, and takes only a few minutes to complete.
Key Points About the Appointment:
- Duration: The scan usually lasts about 5-10 minutes.
- Comfort: Although the procedure is generally comfortable, some women may feel mild discomfort due to the transvaginal nature of the scan.
- Immediate Results: A detailed report will be available immediately after the scan. Parents receive a print-out, and the clinic can also email the report to the referring doctor if they provide an email address.
Specialist Care at the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata
The Institute of Fetal Medicine (IFM) in Kolkata is renowned for its expertise in prenatal testing and fetal medicine. Experienced professionals at IFM conduct the cervical scan using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology to ensure accurate and reliable results. The comprehensive fetal health assessment services at IFM help in early detection and effective management of potential pregnancy complications.
Importance of Regular Cervical Scans
Regular cervical scans are crucial for women at high risk of preterm birth. These scans allow for:
- Early Detection: Identifying cervical shortening early can lead to timely interventions.
- Informed Decision-Making: Doctors can make better-informed decisions regarding the management of high-risk pregnancies.
- Personalized Care: Doctors can develop tailored plans to address individual risks, enhancing the chances of a full-term pregnancy.
Ensuring Fetal Health in Kolkata
The cervical scan in Kolkata, especially at the Institute of Fetal Medicine, plays a pivotal role in pregnancy care. It provides essential insights into the health of the pregnancy, enabling proactive measures to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. The IFM’s dedication to advanced fetal health assessment and personalized care makes it a leading choice for expectant mothers in Kolkata.
Cervical scan is a vital component of prenatal care, particularly for women at risk of preterm birth. By choosing the Institute of Fetal Medicine Kolkata for your cervical scan, you are ensuring that you receive expert care and accurate assessments, contributing to a healthier and safer pregnancy.