Categories
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 (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. 💙

Categories
blog page Down Syndrome Pregnancy Test

Understanding Down Syndrome: Early Diagnosis & Prenatal Care

Down Syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. It affects physical growth, cognitive development, and intellectual abilities, often presenting with distinct facial features. While Down Syndrome cannot be prevented, early diagnosis and proper medical support can help individuals lead fulfilling lives. At our fetal medicine center in Kolkata, we provide comprehensive prenatal diagnostics to ensure timely detection and informed decision-making for expecting parents.

What Causes Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome occurs due to a genetic anomaly known as trisomy 21, where an individual has three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two. This additional genetic material affects development in various ways. The exact cause of this chromosomal abnormality remains unknown, but advanced maternal age is a significant risk factor.

How is Down Syndrome Diagnosed?

1. Prenatal Screening Tests

These tests assess the risk of Down Syndrome in a fetus. Common screening methods available at our prenatal ultrasound clinic in Kolkata include:

  • First-trimester combined screening: Blood test + nuchal translucency ultrasound
  • Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT): A highly accurate blood test analyzing fetal DNA

2. Diagnostic Tests for Confirmation

If a screening test indicates a high risk, diagnostic tests are performed at our fetal diagnostics center in Kolkata:

  • Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) (10–13 weeks)
  • Amniocentesis (15–20 weeks)

Role of Fetal Ultrasound in Down Syndrome Detection

Advanced imaging techniques like the anomaly scan in Kolkata and fetal echocardiography in Kolkata help identify physical markers associated with Down Syndrome, such as heart defects, short femur length, and increased nuchal translucency.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Early detection at a fetal medicine clinic in Kolkata enables:
Informed decision-making for parents
Early intervention plans for better health outcomes
Specialized care for high-risk pregnancies

Expert Care at the Best Fetal Medicine Center in Kolkata

At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, our team of fetal medicine specialists in Kolkata provides expert genetic counselling in Kolkata to help parents understand their baby’s health. With advanced fetal medicine services in Kolkata, we ensure accurate diagnosis, compassionate guidance, and the best support for expecting families.

Comprehensive Fetal Care in Kolkata

If you are expecting and want to ensure the best fetal care in Kolkata, visit our maternal-fetal care center in Kolkata for advanced prenatal screening and fetal growth monitoring.

Book an Appointment Today!

For accurate diagnosis and expert guidance from the best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata, schedule a consultation at our fetal care clinic in Kolkata. Your baby’s health is our priority!

Categories
blog page Fetal Medicine Pregnancy Test

Cervical Screening: Preventing Preterm Birth Through Early Detection

Cervical Screening is an essential prenatal test that assesses the cervix’s length and integrity during pregnancy using transvaginal sonography. It helps predict the risk of preterm birth and cervical insufficiency. This screening is particularly crucial for women with previous pregnancy losses or preterm births.

Importance of Cervical Screening

  • Identifies cervical shortening, which can indicate a risk of preterm labor.
  • Helps in decision making for preventive measures such as cervical cerclage (a procedure to reinforce the cervix).
  • Allows early intervention in high-risk pregnancies.
  • Provides reassurance to women with a history of pregnancy complications.

Who Needs Cervical Screening?

  • Women with a history of preterm birth or late miscarriage.
  • Pregnant women with short cervix detected in previous scans.
  • Those who have undergone previous cervical surgeries.
  • Women carrying twins or multiple pregnancies.

Where to Get Cervical Screening in Kolkata?

For expert high-risk pregnancy care in Kolkata, visit a fetal medicine specialist in Kolkata to assess cervical health and ensure a safe pregnancy.

Cervical Screening is an essential part of prenatal care, particularly for women at risk of preterm birth. Early detection of cervical insufficiency helps in timely intervention and ensures a safer pregnancy outcome.

For cervical length screening in Kolkata, consult a specialist in fetal medicine and high-risk pregnancy care.