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Genetic Testing: Why It Is Important for Fetal Medicine and Care?

How-Genetic-Testing-Helps-in-Fetal-Medicine

Genetic testing is an essential tool that can help identify potential health risks and genetic disorders in unborn babies. This type of medical examination is becoming increasingly common as technological advances make detecting genetic abnormalities early on in a pregnancy easier.

It’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits of fetal genetic testing and determine whether it’s the right option for you and your family.

How Genetic Testing Helps in Fetal Medicine?

Early detection of probable abnormalities in the fetus through genetic testing in Kolkata can lead to personalized medical care and reduce anxiety in would-be parents. This blog will discuss five important reasons why fetal genetic testing is essential.

1.    Early Detection of Genetic Disorders

Fetal genetic testing can detect genetic disorders early on in a pregnancy, allowing parents to prepare for the birth of a child with special needs. Early detection can also allow parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and whether to continue or terminate it if necessary.

2.   Personalized Medical Care

This examination can help doctors provide personalized medical care to the mother and the baby. With the information obtained from this testing, doctors can monitor the pregnancy more closely, provide appropriate medical interventions, and ensure the baby receives the necessary treatment after birth.

3.    Reducing Anxiety and Stress

For parents with a family history of genetic disorders or at risk of passing on a genetic mutation, fetal genetic testing can provide peace of mind. Knowing that their baby has no genetic disorder can help reduce anxiety and stress during pregnancy, allowing parents to enjoy this special time.

4.    Improving Outcomes

Early detection of genetic disorders can lead to better outcomes for the baby. With appropriate medical interventions and treatments, babies with genetic disorders can live longer, healthier lives. In some cases, early detection may even prevent the onset of symptoms or slow down the disorder’s progression.

5.    Family Planning

Genetic testing can help families make informed decisions about their family planning. For couples who have a high risk of passing on a genetic disorder, it can provide valuable information about the risk of future pregnancies. This information can help couples decide whether to have children and how to plan for their future.IFM Fetal Medicine Unit Kolkata

At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, you can meet and consult some of the top experts in genetic testing and get their support throughout the process. Please get in touch with our team to book your appointment.

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Terms Related to Infertility Treatment that You Should Know

Terms-Related-to-Infertility-Treatment-that-You-Should-Know

The term ‘infertility’ evokes a sense of fear and tension in many. Infertility is a physical condition where either of the parents cannot produce their offspring for some defect. Infertility casts a negative and devastating effect on family planning.

Cure Infertility with Proper Treatment

However, all hope is not lost. A person affected by this disability can overcome tough situations with medical treatment. They must visit a renowned infertility specialist for proper diagnosis and step-by-step treatment. Visiting a doctor can also help one to get the right information regarding infertility and its effects.

Common Terms of Infertility Treatment

When someone goes for infertility treatment, it is a whole new experience. The patient might not be aware of all the medical terms and their uses. This blog contains the terms related to this treatment that one should definitely know.

 Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

To know this term, one has to recollect their basic biology lessons. It is a hormone that plays a major role in the mother and father’s reproductive system. For males, it helps in better production of sperm. It is also responsible for egg development in the female body.

 Amenorrhea

It is a situation where the mother misses their regular menstrual routine. In short, it is when someone misses their period. If the regular menstrual function of the mother is not in sync, it can be a sign of an underlying condition.

Hysterosalpingogram

It is an X-ray procedure. It determines if there are any blockages in the fallopian tube of the mother. A particular type of dye is inserted into the female body. It is expected to drain out of the fallopian tube. After this procedure, the surgeon continues with HSG.

Artificial Insemination

It is a function that increases the chances of fertilisation. This procedure includes the introduction of clean sperm into the uterus. The process is also commonly known as Intrauterine Insemination or IUI.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection

In cases of poor sperm health, the doctors go on with this procedure. Here, the carefully selected and stored sperm is injected into an egg. This process has better chances of increasing the chances of fertilisation than other injection processes.

These are some common terms and procedures of Infertility treatment that one should keep in mind. If one is searching for a qualified infertility specialist, they can get in touch with the Insitute of Fetal Medicine Kolkata (IFM). We are one of the reputable names in treating infertility with medically approved procedures. For more details about us, one can visit our website.

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How to choose an Infertility Specialist in Kolkata

Infertility Specialist in Kolkata

The birth of a baby is an extremely auspicious and gratifying experience, particularly for the parents of the newborn. However, not all couples find it easy to conceive a baby. For such men and women,  there exist Infertility specialists  plying their trade across countless facilities dotting the breadth of various cities. With so many options, it is often a mind-boggling exercise, selecting one to approach, and it requires thorough research to make an informed decision. To assist you through your research, here are some essential factors that you need to evaluate:

 1. Ascertaining Success Rates 

The foremost statistic advertised by infertility specialists is their rate of success at inducing birth. However, there are facts behind this statistical figure that you need to uncover, before buying into the value proposition of a clinic. For example, there are various separate procedures like In Vitrio Fertilization (IVF), Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) and Intra Uterine Insemination (IUI) that each come with a different rate of statistical success. Further, the success rate is different for patients in different age groups.

 2. The Reassurance of Experience Of Clinical Staff

A really good clinic would be adjudged so on the basis of the experience and talent of its doctors and staff members. Since fertility treatments and procedures are very expensive, it is advisable to not look to cut corners during your tryst with them. A good way to ensure that you’d be getting value for your money would be to visit the clinic ahead of time and interact with the people working there, and then evaluate the evidence you find.

 3. Facilities Provided and Technology Deployed

A great number of infertility cases are now treatable with the latest technology. The clinic or hospital you choose should be equipped with the most contemporary machines and employ staff dedicated to running them. 

 4. Staying in Abeyance for the Duration Of The Procedures

Some fertility treatments require a significant amount of time and multiple visits on the part of the patient. That is why it is important to make sure that the facility you choose is close to where you live. 

 5. Costs And Procedures Outlined with Precision 

A good fertility clinic would be tidy and ethical both in terms of its medical and financial procedures. The cost of treatment quoted during your initial consultation with them should be what they charge you in the end. You should also find out if they charge you for pre and post treatment counseling. Further, the medical procedures you are signing up for should be explained and gone over with you by the clinic of your choosing, so you are prepared physically and mentally for the same. Also, as a donor or a patient, you are entitled to ask for confidentiality in all procedures.

The Institute of Fetal Medicine is an infertility specialist in Kolkata where we treat common and complex pregnancy issues with assurance and discretion. Visit us today for a consultation!

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Your Common Queries About Fetal Echocardiography Have Been Answered

Fetal Echocardiography

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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Everything You Need to Know About Fetal Echocardiography

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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3 Essential Tips for First-time Fertility Appointments

Infetility specialist

A child is indeed a blessing in every couple’s life. If you get naturally pregnant, then the journey of motherhood becomes memorable. However, there are thousands of couples who have a hard time conceiving a child. Infertility in men and woman has become a common problem nowadays. Unhealthy food habits, excessive work pressure, and lack of personal space are a few points that make a couple infertile and hard to conceive a baby.

For them visiting a good infertility specialist in Kolkata become the only option left. Unlike visiting a gynecologist during pregnancy, this can be an awkward visit! Put your inhibitions away and communicate openly with the infertility specialist. If you don’t tell them about your problem, then the treatment procedure will get delayed.

Depending on you and your partner’s health situation, the majority of the specialists will suggest undergoing IVF. This is a highly successful procedure with a guaranteed chance of conceiving a child if done properly. However, you and your partner have to open up in front of the specialist for the whole process to be successful. The first meeting can be complex and full of inhibitions. Follow a few pointers and start your journey comfortably.

How to communicate with an infertility specialist the first time?

Gather previous health reports

Don’t go unprepared, as this might put you and the specialist into trouble. When you decide to go to an infertility specialist, it means that you’ve tried conceiving naturally and failed in the past. Hence you must have undergone tests as well that highlight your problem. Hence arrange all previous reports like blood test reports, sonography reports, and medication data. Presenting the reports first will help you break the ice.

Note down the important points

Carry a notebook and note down the important points that you discuss in the session. The specialist may not go for IVF readily. They may suggest a few tests, changes in lifestyle, diet, and tell you to start exercising. You must not down the important points so that you start with the same instantly.

Shoot queries as much as possible

Fixing an appointment with the infertility specialist means you must be having a lot of queries in your mind. Ask your doubts. If you refrain from doing so, you might remain stressed even at the end of the session. The idea is to reduce your burden and get a clear view of the treatment procedure.

To experience the joy of motherhood, contact the Institute of Fetal Medicine. We have the best infertility specialists in Kolkata who can treat female infertility through IVF or IUI treatments. Fix your appointment and undergo a simple yet effective treatment to get the most joyful moment of your life.

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Consulting An Infertility Specialist – A Few Things To Know

Infertility Specialist

Starting a family is often the most desired and sought-after couple goal. There is no specific time to plan a family. Any time is the right time though it all depends on the mental physical and financial states of the would-be parents. As it comes to planning a family, infertility is a major drawback that many couples face. And here is something that you should know before planning a family and consulting an infertility specialist if needed.

How long should you wait?

Well, you actually can’t do this luxury. Infertility is a time-sensitive issue. It is always recommended not to wait for the so-called ‘right time’ and put your fertility on hold. Otherwise, it might be really late.

How long have you been putting in the effort?

Have you been trying for more than a year to get pregnant without any fruitful outcome? Well, you might need to get medical assistance to conceive fast and of course, successfully. Don’t forget that the span is shorter for couples over 35 years. They should seek medical advice earlier being unsuccessful with normal attempts.

What factors to consider while planning to get pregnant?

  • Age – Are you below 35 or above?

  • Pre-existing medical condition and medical background – Do you have a history of any chronic illness in the family? Is there a history of early or premature menopause?

  • Reproductive problems – Now it’s time to check if you’re suffering from uterine/fallopian tube issues, PCOS, thyroid problem (for the female partner), endometriosis, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or sperm disorder.

  • Surgery/injury – Has any of the partners endured a surgery or any injury on the reproductive organs?

  • Cancer – Are you suffering from cancer or undergoing treatment?

  • Lifestyle – Check if any of you are underweight/obese. Do you drink or smoke?

Why should you be prompt?

  • The ovarian reserve gets declined with every menstrual cycle

  • As the age advances, the risks of miscarriage also get increased

  • Prior to starting your treatment, you might need to bring some lifestyle changes

  • Fertility screenings stretch over time; they may need additional screening as well

  • You may need to undergo several attempts resulting in a delay

What should you do now?

Visit a reputable Infertility Specialist in Kolkata having a good success rate in terms of infertility issues. They usually will want you to go through a couple-package to track the fertility status. The key steps at this phase are as follows:

  • Consultation with a fertility expert at your chosen clinic

  • Screening tests including Anti-Mullerian Hormone, Ultrasound scan, and tubal patency (HSG/ SIS )for the female partner

  • Screening tests includes semen analysis for the male partner

These tests will help to diagnose if there are any underlying issues related to infertility with any of the partners. The consultant is likely to guide you after checking the test reports so you can make a wise decision regarding what step you should take next.

Can it be cured?

Well, unfortunately, infertility can’t be cured always. But some cases are curable. There are 4 key options and those are:

  • Ovulation induction or OI – Restoration or regulation of the ovulation with the help of medicines.

  • Intrauterine insemination or IUI–This involves a marginally invasive procedure to place washed sperms directly in the uterus to enhance the possibility of fertilization.

  • IVF (Self Cycle) – This process involves retrieval of the mature egg of the female partner and healthy sperms of the male partner. Upon collection, the egg and the sperm are combined in the lab for the purpose of fertilization.

  • ICSI (Self Cycle) – This procedure involves injecting a healthy sperm into the egg with a fine glass needle while removing the limitations related to poor egg or less number of sperms/ Azoospermia.

These are the major things you need to know before visiting an infertility specialist.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Few Things To Avoid During Pregnancy

Fetal Medicine

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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Everything You Need to Know about Amniocentesis Test in Kolkata

Amniocentesis Test

A lot of medical tests and clinical examinations are done during pregnancy to monitor the health and growth of the fetus. These tests are also required to monitor the health of the would-be mom too. Amniocentesis is one such prenatal test. The test can detect as well as diagnose various chromosomal conditions.

Your obstetrician or Ob-Gyn will suggest this test to get valuable information about the health conditions of your unborn baby.

If you wish to know more about this test, please continue reading this blog.

What is Amniocentesis Test?

Your baby stays surrounded by amniotic fluid inside your uterus. During Amniocentesis Test, that fluid sample is taken out from your uterus to examine your baby’s cells and other chemicals. The test result will provide your doctor with crucial information about the health, genetic and level of maturity.

This test is highly effective in determining several genetic conditions in a fetus. Even conditions like sickle cell anemia and Down syndrome can be detected with the help of this test.

Why And When This Test is Imperative?

  • The amniocentesis test is not mandatory during pregnancy. It is an optional clinical examination. Your Ob-Gyn or prenatal care specialist will suggest you this test in certain conditions.

  • Results of other screening tests (including blood tests and USG tests) seem a bit abnormal or problematic.

  • The results of these tests are doubtful and not useful to understand the condition of your baby’s health.

  • The parents already have a child with a specific health condition that can be diagnosed with an Amniocentesis test.

  • Both or any of you two (you are your partner) have a family history of a specific genetic condition like Tay-Sachs disease or sickle cell anemia.

  • You are above 35 and want to be sure that your age will not affect your baby’s growth and genetic condition.

When is the Test Performed During Pregnancy?

The most preferred time for performing an amniocentesis test is between week 16 to week 20 during your pregnancy period. However, if your doctor finds it necessary, then he can ask you to have this test done any time until you give birth. It is not recommended before week 15 because this can cause risks in pregnancy, including miscarriage.

IFM Kolkata is the most reliable and reputable place in Kolkata for this test. We have highly talented and experienced doctors and other staffs who can offer you the best service.

Please get in touch with our customer service team to know all the details.

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Know in Detail About the Chorionic Villus Sampling Test

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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