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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 (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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Fetal Medicine blog page Doppler Test

Types of Doppler Ultrasound Tests that You Should Know About

In modern-day prenatal tests, ultrasound plays an important role. It is a high-frequency sound wave that can be effective in tissue diagnoses. Among various ultrasound tests, the Doppler test has a significance of its own.

What is a Doppler Test?

A Doppler test is a much more simple process compared to invasive procedures like venography. It is widely used to detect abnormalities in blood flow and diagnose problems like thrombosis. In the Doppler test, the sound waves do not bounce back after hitting the surface. As a result, it can be useful in tracking moving objects.

More About the Four Kinds of Doppler Tests:

Different Doppler tests in Kolkata are available for diagnosing any prenatal issues. These may be non-invasive procedures, but their effectiveness cannot be challenged. One can get more information about these tests from this blog.

Colour Doppler Test: One can obtain images of blood vessels by standard ultrasound tests. This type of Doppler test converts the sounds into different colours. These are overlaid on the blood vessel image, which helps to determine the speed of the blood flow. It can be effective in detecting blood clots in the body of the mother and the foetus.

Duplex Doppler Test: It is a specialised Doppler test that can determine the direction and speed of blood flow in the limbs. A combination of standard ultrasound methods produces a clear picture of the blood vessels. It is sometimes considered an alternative method of venography and arteriography.

Continuous Wave Doppler: In this process, the ultrasound waves are frequently transmitted via the transducer. A doctor analyses the findings of these sound waves to determine any abnormality in blood flow. Generally, a portable machine is used to provide a quick estimate of the condition. The change in the pitch of the sound waves can provide important information about blood flow through the vessels.

Power Doppler Test: This test is performed by using the amplitude of the Doppler signal. It is effective in capturing the moving particles. Power Doppler test can be the most effective procedure for detection of lesser velocity compared to other tests. This can inform one about the blood flow rate through veins and arteries in solid organs.
To get professional assistance in a wide range of Doppler tests, one can contact the Institute of Fetal Medicine. They have experts who have years of experience in this field. For more details, one can visit their website.