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Why Can’t Parents Hear the Fetal Heartbeat in Early Pregnancy Even When Doctors Confirm It?

One of the most anticipated and joyous moments during early pregnancy is hearing the fetal heartbeat. However, many parents experience confusion or anxiety when their doctor confirms a fetal heartbeat on an ultrasound, yet they themselves cannot hear it. Understanding why this happens can provide reassurance and clarity during those first weeks.

Why Can’t Parents Hear the Fetal Heartbeat Early On?

There are several reasons why parents may not be able to hear the heartbeat even though it is detected by medical equipment:

  • Ultrasound Imaging vs. Doppler Device:
    Doctors often use ultrasound scans (either transvaginal or abdominal) during early pregnancy to visualize the fetal heartbeat. The heartbeat is seen as a flicker or motion on the screen. The “sound” heard during these scans usually comes from the ultrasound machine’s speaker and is not the actual heartbeat sound audible to parents.
    In contrast, handheld Doppler devices, which pick up sound waves from the heartbeat, are typically used later in pregnancy to allow parents to hear the heartbeat directly.
  • Early Pregnancy Limitations:
    Before approximately 10 to 12 weeks of gestation, the fetal heart is extremely small, and the sound waves it generates are very faint. This makes it difficult for Doppler devices to pick up and amplify the heartbeat sound reliably.
  • Position and Size of the Fetus:
    The fetus’s position inside the uterus and its small size can also affect the clarity and audibility of the heartbeat sound. If the baby is positioned deep inside the uterus or behind the placenta, it may be harder to detect the heartbeat audibly.

When Can Parents Expect to Hear the Fetal Heartbeat?

  • Typical Timeline for Audible Heartbeat:
    Most parents can hear the fetal heartbeat using a Doppler device or a stethoscope-like tool around 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy. This is when the fetal heart has grown enough and the sound waves are strong enough for detection.
  • Before Audible Detection:
    Prior to this period, doctors primarily rely on ultrasound imaging to confirm the heartbeat visually rather than audibly.

Tips for Parents During Early Pregnancy

  • Don’t Panic if You Can’t Hear It:
    Not hearing the heartbeat at an early stage is completely normal and usually not a sign of any problem.
  • Trust the Doctor’s Ultrasound Confirmation:
    The visual confirmation of a heartbeat via ultrasound is the most reliable and important sign of fetal viability.
  • Ask Questions and Stay Informed:
    Use your prenatal visits to clarify doubts and ask your healthcare provider for reassurance and explanation.
  • Be Patient:
    Remember that fetal development and detection technology have limits in very early pregnancy, and the audible heartbeat is usually detected soon after this early phase.

Hearing the fetal heartbeat is an exciting milestone, but parents should not worry if it is not audible in the very early weeks. The doctor’s confirmation through ultrasound is what truly matters at this stage. As pregnancy progresses, the heartbeat sound becomes easier to detect and hear, providing increasing reassurance to parents.

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Foods to Eat During Pregnancy for Fetal Brain Development

Why Nutrition Matters for Fetal Brain Development

The developing brain is one of the most important organs forming during pregnancy. Proper nutrition provides the essential nutrients needed for healthy brain growth and cognitive function in the baby.

Top Foods That Support Fetal Brain Development

Here are some nutrient-rich foods that are especially beneficial during pregnancy:

  • Eggs: Rich in choline, which supports brain cell development and memory function.
  • Fatty Fish (e.g., salmon, sardines): High in DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid crucial for brain and eye development.
  • Leafy Green Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and broccoli provide folate, which helps prevent neural tube defects.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds supply healthy fats and vitamin E, which protect brain cells.
  • Berries: Blueberries and strawberries contain antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress in developing brain tissue.
  • Avocados: Loaded with healthy fats and folate that promote brain cell formation.
  • Whole Grains: Oats and brown rice provide energy and B vitamins needed for brain growth.

Nutrients to Focus On

  • Choline: Critical for brain development and function.
  • DHA (Omega-3): Builds brain and retinal tissue.
  • Folate: Supports proper neural tube closure.
  • Iron: Ensures oxygen delivery to the developing brain.
  • Antioxidants: Protect brain cells from damage.

Tips for a Brain-Healthy Pregnancy Diet

  • Include a variety of the above foods daily.
  • Consider prenatal vitamins as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  • Stay hydrated and limit processed foods and excessive sugar.
  • Avoid high-mercury fish such as king mackerel or swordfish.

Eating a balanced diet rich in brain-supporting nutrients can have lasting positive effects on your baby’s cognitive development. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods and consult your doctor for personalized dietary advice during pregnancy.

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Viability Scan vs. NT Scan: What’s the Difference?

Understanding Early Pregnancy Scans

Early pregnancy involves several important ultrasound scans to monitor fetal health and development. Two common scans during the first trimester are the viability scan and the nuchal translucency (NT) scan. Although both are ultrasound procedures, they serve different purposes and are performed at different stages.

What is a Viability Scan?

A viability scan is usually performed between 6 to 9 weeks of pregnancy. Its primary goals include:

  • Confirming the presence of an intrauterine pregnancy
  • Detecting a fetal heartbeat
  • Estimating the gestational age of the embryo
  • Checking for multiple pregnancies (twins or more)
  • Identifying early pregnancy complications such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage risk

This scan reassures parents that the pregnancy is developing normally in the early stages.

What is the NT Scan?

The Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan is a screening test performed between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. It measures the thickness of the clear fluid-filled space at the back of the baby’s neck called the nuchal translucency.

An increased NT measurement can indicate a higher risk for certain chromosomal abnormalities, including:

  • Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
  • Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18)
  • Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13)

The NT scan is usually combined with blood tests to provide a risk assessment for these conditions.

Key Differences Between Viability Scan and NT Scan

Feature

Viability Scan

NT Scan

Timing

6 – 9 weeks

11 – 13 weeks

Purpose

Confirm pregnancy and heartbeat

Screen for chromosomal abnormalities

What it measures

Presence of embryo and heartbeat

Thickness of nuchal translucency

Additional use

Check for multiples, early risks

Combined with blood tests for risk score

Why Are Both Scans Important?

  • The viability scan provides early confirmation and peace of mind that the pregnancy is progressing normally.
  • The NT scan offers valuable information about genetic risks that help parents make informed decisions about further testing and pregnancy management.

Both scans are non-invasive, safe, and vital parts of comprehensive prenatal care.

Understanding the difference between the viability scan and NT scan can help expectant parents navigate early pregnancy with confidence. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice on when to schedule these important ultrasounds.

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Pregnancy Scans: Ensuring a Healthy Journey for You and Your Baby

Pregnancy is a transformative journey, and timely scans play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and baby. At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, we provide advanced prenatal ultrasound services to help expectant parents monitor fetal development and detect any complications early.

Are Pregnancy Scans Safe?

Yes, pregnancy scans are completely safe when performed by experienced specialists. Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves, not radiation, making it a non-invasive, risk-free procedure for both the mother and baby.

Essential Pregnancy Scans You Should Take

1️⃣ First Trimester Scans (6 to 14 Weeks)

Early Pregnancy Scan (Viability Scan) – Confirms pregnancy, checks heartbeat, and determines gestational age.
NT & NB Scan (Nuchal Translucency & Nasal Bone Scan) – Helps detect the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome.
Pre-eclampsia Screening – Assesses the risk of high blood pressure complications during pregnancy.

👉 Available at our prenatal ultrasound clinic in Kolkata under expert supervision.

2️⃣ Second Trimester Scans (18 to 24 Weeks)

Anomaly Scan (Level II Ultrasound) – A detailed examination of the baby’s organs, spine, brain, heart, and limbs to check for structural abnormalities.
Fetal Echocardiography – A specialized scan to detect congenital heart defects in high-risk pregnancies.

👉 Visit our fetal diagnostics center in Kolkata for expert evaluations.

3️⃣ Third Trimester Scans (28 to 40 Weeks)

Growth Scan – Monitors fetal growth, weight, and well-being.
Doppler Scan – Assesses placental blood flow to ensure proper oxygen and nutrient supply to the baby.
Biophysical Profile (BPP) – A combination of scans to check fetal movement, breathing, and amniotic fluid levels.

👉 Essential for high-risk pregnancy care in Kolkata to ensure a safe delivery.

Why Choose the Institute of Fetal Medicine?

Best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata for expert evaluations.
Advanced fetal medicine services in Kolkata for high-risk pregnancies.
State-of-the-art fetal care clinic in Kolkata with cutting-edge ultrasound technology.
Comprehensive maternal-fetal care in Kolkata to ensure healthy pregnancy outcomes.

Book Your Pregnancy Scan Today!

Ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy by undergoing timely scans at our fetal medicine center in Kolkata. Early detection leads to better management and peace of mind.

💙 Your Baby’s Health Starts Here! 💙

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What Does an Anomaly Scan Detect in Pregnancy?

The Anomaly Scan, also known as the Level II Ultrasound, is a crucial mid-pregnancy screening performed between 18 to 22 weeks. This detailed scan helps assess the baby’s growth, development, and overall well-being, ensuring early detection of any abnormalities.

At our fetal medicine center in Kolkata, we offer advanced anomaly scans to provide expectant parents with comprehensive insights into their baby’s health.

1️⃣ Fetal Anatomy Examination

The anomaly scan provides a detailed view of the baby’s organs and structures, including:
Brain and skull – Detects neural tube defects like spina bifida
Heart – Identifies congenital heart defects (fetal echocardiography in Kolkata may be recommended for further evaluation)
Face – Checks for cleft lip and palate
Limbs – Assesses proper development of arms, legs, fingers, and toes
Spine – Screens for spinal deformities

👉 This scan is crucial for ensuring your baby’s structural development is progressing normally.

2️⃣ Detection of Structural Abnormalities

The anomaly scan in Kolkata is performed by fetal medicine specialists to identify:
🔹 Brain abnormalities (Hydrocephalus, Anencephaly)
🔹 Heart defects (Congenital Heart Disease)
🔹 Kidney issues (Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney, Hydronephrosis)
🔹 Limb abnormalities (Clubfoot, Skeletal Dysplasia)
🔹 Facial defects (Cleft Lip, Micrognathia)

Early detection allows for better medical planning and management of high-risk pregnancies.

3️⃣ Monitoring Fetal Growth

The anomaly scan also checks if the baby is growing as expected. Key parameters measured include:
Head circumference (HC)
Abdominal circumference (AC)
Femur length (FL)

👉 If any growth concerns arise, fetal growth monitoring in Kolkata is recommended for continued assessment.

4️⃣ Assessing Amniotic Fluid Levels

Amniotic fluid is vital for fetal movement and lung development. The anomaly scan helps detect:
🔹 Low amniotic fluid (Oligohydramnios) – Can indicate placental insufficiency or fetal kidney issues
🔹 Excess amniotic fluid (Polyhydramnios) – May be linked to diabetes, fetal swallowing issues, or chromosomal abnormalities

Abnormal fluid levels may require additional screening at our fetal medicine clinic in Kolkata.

Why Get an Anomaly Scan at Our Fetal Medicine Center?

Best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata for expert evaluation
Comprehensive prenatal diagnostics in Kolkata
Advanced fetal medicine services in Kolkata for high-risk pregnancies
Maternal-fetal care in Kolkata for ongoing monitoring

Book Your Anomaly Scan Today!

Ensure your baby’s health and development with an anomaly scan at our fetal care clinic in Kolkata. Early screening leads to better pregnancy outcomes!

💙 Your Baby’s Health is Our Priority! 💙

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

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

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 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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4 Important Questions to Ask A Fetal Medicine Specialist

A high-risk pregnancy is a serious issue that should be handled properly. If you are one of the victims of this type of pregnancy, you should get proper treatment and care. The best tip would be to communicate with a reliable fetal medicine specialist near you.

Challenges of High-Risk Pregnancies:

Each trimester of a high-risk pregnancy may seem like a testing time for you. It can be both scary and stressful. However, communicating with a trusted specialist can help you reduce this stress. By making an appointment, you can remain assured of being more confident and relaxed about the whole process.

What to Ask a Fetal Medicine Specialist Regarding Pregnancy?

While visiting a fetal medicine specialist, you should ask some vital questions to them. Their answers should be able to answer your queries and provide you with the right information about the diagnosis. Some of these questions are discussed in detail below.

Are there Some Recommended Procedures for this Treatment?

Some high-risk pregnancy issues need in-utero surgery to fix the problem. These include critical issues like spina bifida. Others can be cured through regular monitoring or non-surgical treatments. Either way, your fetal medicine specialist will outline the treatment to solve your issue.

What Should I Expect from the Rest of My Pregnancy?

High-risk pregnancies generally do not follow the path of a regular pregnancy. You need to be more sensitive about your condition and be in constant touch with your specialist. You may expect frequent appointments, monitoring, and in some cases, be prepared for surgery. However, you should not panic about the outcomes and ask your concerns about your doctor.

Are there some symptoms of high-risk pregnancies?

Risky pregnancies often accompany several physical symptoms. You may face some physical discomfort like nausea, fatigue or high blood pressure. To confirm these symptoms, you should communicate with your fetal medicine specialist. They will be able to provide proper answers to your questions. You may also get tips from the doctor’s end to keep yourself healthy during this crucial period.

These are some questions that you should ask your infertility specialist in Kolkata regarding high-risk pregnancies. You can remain assured of getting proper assurance, guidance and treatment from their end. For better assistance, you must take help from Institute of Fetal Medicine. They are a trustworthy source known to treat infertility and perform tests like genetic testing. For more information, you can visit their website.

 

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How to Choose a Good Fetal Care Clinic for High-Risk Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be risky for some women. The entire process can cause a huge health risk for some would-be moms and their unborn babies too. Thanks to modern medical technologies that nowadays, pregnancy has become less risky than before. If your ob-gyn suspects your case is a high-risk pregnancy, you must opt for a reputable clinic where fetal medicine and care are available.

Kolkata has multiple clinics where Fetal Echocardiography and other clinical tests are done to ensure that the mother and the fetus are in a safe condition. Finding one suitable for you is not tough when you know how to choose the right one.

Vital Factors to Check in a Fetal Care Centre

List of Doctors, Radiologists and Other Technicians

A clinic can provide you with the best service because of its team. Thus, it is important to check the list of doctors and other technicians to ensure that you will receive the best support from the top professionals in this industry. Go through the names of fetal care experts, obstetricians and gynaecologists, along with radiologists and fetal medicine professionals. Check their degrees and experience to be sure about their skills and experience.

Range of Services

A good fetal care unit typically offers a range of services for would-be mothers and their unborn babies. This also includes infertility treatments, special care for high-risk pregnancies, Invasives and Non-invasives, IVF/IUI, USG and blood tests in pregnancy. All these medical examinations are done to monitor the fetus’s and the mom’s health. Fetal medicine experts will check these reports and determine what type of treatments your unborn baby should receive inside your womb to be born healthy.

Advanced Equipment

A modern fetal care unit must have advanced equipment that will help doctors and technicians correct and diagnose the issues in a woman and her unborn baby. The results must be accurate and detect different aspects of one particular medical condition. Complex tests like Fetal Echocardiography and others must be done with modern equipment by skilled and certified
technicians only.

Good Customer Service

Fetal care clinics must have excellent customer service. Generally, people come here with lots of anxiety and stress. It is the responsibility of the clinic’s staff to make them feel comfortable and stress-free with the right guidance and treatments.

IFM Fetal Medicine Unit Kolkata

Institute of Fetal Medicine or IFM offers a range of services and medical options to make pregnancy the most lovable and memorable experience of your life. We have highly advanced equipment in our clinic. Our doctors are the best in their field. Please get in touch with us for more details.