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Why the Second Trimester Anomaly Scan Should Never Be Missed in Pregnancy

Why the Second Trimester Anomaly Scan Should Never Be Missed in Pregnancy

The second trimester anomaly scan is a crucial part of prenatal care, typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This detailed ultrasound examination plays a key role in assessing the baby’s development, helping detect any structural abnormalities early. Missing this scan can mean losing a valuable opportunity for early diagnosis and timely intervention.

What is the Second Trimester Anomaly Scan?

Also referred to as the level 2 ultrasound, the anomaly scan goes beyond the basic pregnancy check-up by offering an in-depth look at the fetal anatomy. This includes examination of:

  • The brain and spinal cord
  • The heart and its chambers
  • The facial structure, including the lips and jaw
  • The limbs and digits
  • Major organs like the kidneys, stomach, and bladder
  • Fetal growth measurements to ensure the baby is developing properly
  • The placenta’s position and the amount of amniotic fluid

Why is the Anomaly Scan So Important?

Here are some of the key reasons why you should never skip the second trimester anomaly scan:

  • Detect Congenital Anomalies Early:
    Many birth defects such as congenital heart defects, neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida), and cleft lip and palate, and limb deformities can be diagnosed during this scan. Early detection allows better preparation and possible treatment options.
  • Helps Plan Pregnancy and Delivery:
    If abnormalities are found, doctors can design a detailed care plan for the pregnancy and delivery. For example, some conditions may require delivery at a specialized centre equipped for neonatal surgery or intensive care.
  • Provides Reassurance for Parents:
    Seeing that the baby is growing well and has no detected anomalies offers immense peace of mind and reduces anxiety during pregnancy.
  • Monitors Placental Health and Amniotic Fluid:
    Problems with the placenta or amniotic fluid levels can affect pregnancy outcomes. Detecting these issues early allows timely management to protect both mother and baby.

What Happens If You Skip the Anomaly Scan?

Skipping this important scan can have several implications:

  • Missed Early Diagnosis of Treatable Conditions:
    Without this scan, structural defects might only be found after birth, limiting treatment options and increasing risks.
  • Increased Risk of Being Unprepared:
    Parents and healthcare providers might face unexpected complications during delivery without prior planning.
  • Limited Prenatal Counselling and Support:
    Knowing about fetal conditions early helps families access counselling, make informed decisions, and arrange appropriate care.

When Should You Schedule the Anomaly Scan?

The best time for this scan is between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation when fetal structures are developed enough for detailed assessment. Scheduling within this window ensures accurate and comprehensive evaluation.

The second trimester anomaly scan is a cornerstone of prenatal care. It provides detailed insights into fetal development, helps anticipate potential challenges, and enables optimal pregnancy management. For the health and safety of both mother and baby, this scan should never be missed.

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

Fetal Heartbeat

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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Myotonic Dystrophy: Symptoms, Genetics, and Pregnancy Implications

Myotonic Dystrophy: Symptoms, Genetics, and Pregnancy Implications

Myotonic dystrophy is a genetic neuromuscular disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and difficulty relaxing muscles after contraction, known as myotonic. This inherited condition affects multiple systems in the body and has important implications for affected individuals and their families—especially women planning pregnancy or currently pregnant. Awareness and proper care are essential for managing this complex disorder.

Causes and Genetics of Myotonic Dystrophy

Myotonic dystrophy is caused by mutations in the DMPK gene (for type 1) or in the CNBP gene (for type 2), leading to abnormal muscle function.

  • It follows an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, which means if one parent carries the mutation, there is a 50% chance of passing the condition to the child.
  • The severity and symptoms can vary widely even within the same family.
  • There are two main types:
    • Type 1 (DM1) – more common and typically more severe.
    • Type 2 (DM2) – generally milder but still impacts quality of life.

Symptoms of Myotonic Dystrophy

Symptoms can affect various parts of the body and usually develop gradually:

  • Muscle Weakness and Myotonic: Difficulty relaxing muscles after use, stiffness, and progressive weakening.
  • Early-Onset Cataracts: Clouding of the eye lens appearing earlier than usual.
  • Cardiac Conduction Defects: Irregular heart rhythms or arrhythmias that can require medical attention.
  • Respiratory Difficulties: Due to weakened respiratory muscles.
  • Cognitive and Learning Challenges: Some individuals may experience mild intellectual disabilities or learning difficulties.
  • Other Symptoms: Fatigue, swallowing difficulties, and hormonal imbalances.

Implications of Myotonic Dystrophy During Pregnancy

Pregnancy in women with myotonic dystrophy requires special attention because of the increased risk of complications:

  • Monitoring for Preterm Labour and Miscarriage: Women with DM have a higher risk of these issues.
  • Genetic Counselling: Essential for understanding the inheritance pattern and the likelihood of passing the disorder to the baby.
  • Prenatal Testing Options:
    • Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) between 10-13 weeks or
    • Amniocentesis between 15-20 weeks can detect whether the fetus has inherited the condition.
  • Fetal Monitoring: Regular ultrasounds and fetal assessments to ensure healthy development.

Management and Care for Myotonic Dystrophy

A multidisciplinary approach is crucial for managing myotonic dystrophy effectively:

  • Neurologists provide muscle and nerve care.
  • Cardiologists monitor and manage heart-related issues.
  • Obstetricians oversee pregnancy health and fetal monitoring.
  • Genetic Counsellors help families understand risks and make informed reproductive choices.
  • Symptomatic Treatments: There is no cure, but therapies exist to improve muscle strength, reduce myotonic, and manage heart conditions.
  • Regular Prenatal Check-ups: Close monitoring is necessary to detect and manage any pregnancy complications early.

Myotonic dystrophy is a complex inherited disorder that can significantly impact pregnancy and family planning. Early diagnosis, genetic counselling, and coordinated medical care are key to managing the condition and supporting affected families. Women with myotonic dystrophy should work closely with their healthcare team to ensure the best outcomes for themselves and their babies.

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Is It Important to Do a Fetal Echo in High-Risk Pregnancy?

Is It Important to Do a Fetal Echo in High-Risk Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a time filled with anticipation and joy, but for some, it carries added concerns due to certain risk factors. One critical tool in managing these concerns is the fetal echocardiogram or fetal echo. This specialized ultrasound scan provides a detailed look at the baby’s heart before birth, offering invaluable insights, especially in high-risk pregnancies. But why is fetal echo so important, and when should it be done? Let’s explore this in detail.

What is a Fetal Echo?

A fetal echocardiogram is an advanced ultrasound examination focused specifically on the fetal heart. Unlike a routine ultrasound, which provides a general overview, a fetal echo captures detailed images of the heart’s anatomy and function. It assesses the size and shape of the heart chambers, valves, and the flow of blood through the heart, and the heart’s rhythm and rate. This detailed evaluation helps detect congenital heart defects (CHDs) — structural problems in the heart present from birth.

Why Is Fetal Echo Crucial in High-Risk Pregnancies?

Certain pregnancies carry a higher risk of fetal heart abnormalities due to maternal or familial factors. In such cases, fetal echocardiography becomes a vital diagnostic step. Here’s why:

  • Family History of Heart Defects: If one or both parents have a history of congenital heart disease or if a previous child had a CHD, the risk to the current fetus increases. Fetal echo allows early detection and timely planning.
  • Maternal Health Conditions: Diseases such as diabetes mellitus, lupus, phenylketonuria (PKU), or infections like rubella during pregnancy can increase the chance of fetal heart defects.
  • Abnormal Findings on Routine Ultrasound: Sometimes, during a regular anomaly scan, subtle signs may hint at a possible heart problem. A fetal echo helps confirm or rule out these suspicions.
  • Exposure to Teratogens: Use of certain medications, alcohol, drugs, or environmental toxins during pregnancy can adversely affect fetal heart development.
  • Multiple Pregnancies: Twins or higher-order multiples specially monochorionic pregnancies have a higher risk of heart defects, warranting a fetal echo.

Early identification of heart abnormalities allows doctors to:

  • Plan for specialized care during pregnancy
  • Counsel parents about the condition and expected outcomes
  • Decide the optimal time and mode of delivery to ensure immediate new-born care
  • Arrange for postnatal interventions, including surgery if needed

When Should a Fetal Echo Be Performed?

The ideal time for a fetal echocardiogram is typically between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation. By this stage, the fetal heart is developed enough to provide detailed images for accurate assessment. However, in some cases, especially where early concerns arise, the scan can be done earlier or repeated later.

What Does a Fetal Echo Involve?

  • The procedure is non-invasive and safe for both mother and baby.
  • It uses high-frequency sound waves to generate heart images.
  • Usually performed by a trained fetal cardiologist or sonographer.
  • May take 30-60 minutes, depending on fetal position and complexity.

Benefits of Fetal Echo in High-Risk Pregnancies

  • Early Detection of Heart Defects: Enables prompt medical decisions and reduces complications.
  • Better Parental Counselling: Families receive accurate information and psychological preparation.
  • Coordinated Multidisciplinary Care: Obstetricians, pediatric cardiologists, and neonatologists work together to optimize outcomes.
  • Improved Survival and Quality of Life: Early intervention can significantly improve prognosis for many congenital heart conditions.

Common Congenital Heart Defects Detected by Fetal Echo

  • Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
  • Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS)
  • Tetralogy of Fallot
  • Transposition of the Great Arteries
  • Atrioventricular Septal Defect

Detecting these early guides management before and after birth.

For pregnancies with risk factors, undergoing a fetal echocardiogram is not just important; it is essential. This detailed heart scan provides clarity and reassurance, helping doctors prepare for the best possible care tailored to each baby’s needs. If you or your healthcare provider identify risk factors, consult a fetal cardiology specialist to schedule this vital scan. Early knowledge means better planning and better outcomes for both mother and child.

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Foods to Eat During Pregnancy for Fetal Brain Development

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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Importance of Genetic Counselling in Pregnancy

Genetic Counselling

What is Genetic Counselling?

Genetic counselling is a specialized service provided to expectant parents to help them understand the risks of inherited genetic conditions during pregnancy. It involves meeting with a trained genetic counsellor who evaluates family and medical histories, discusses available genetic tests, and explains the implications of test results.

Who Should Consider Genetic Counselling?

Genetic counselling is especially recommended if:

  • There is a family history of genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, or Down syndrome
  • The mother is over 35 years old, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities
  • Prenatal screening tests indicate potential risks
  • The couple belongs to a population with a higher incidence of specific genetic diseases
  • Previous pregnancies were affected by genetic conditions

What Happens During Genetic Counselling?

During the counselling session, the genetic counsellor will:

  • Collect detailed family medical histories
  • Explain the types of genetic tests available, such as carrier screening or non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
  • Discuss the benefits, limitations, and possible outcomes of testing
  • Help parents understand what the test results mean for their pregnancy and baby’s health
  • Provide emotional support and guidance for decision-making

Benefits of Genetic Counselling

  • Informed decision-making: Parents gain clarity about potential risks and testing options
  • Personalized care: Enables doctors to tailor prenatal care based on risk assessment
  • Early intervention: Identifies conditions that may require monitoring or treatment before or after birth
  • Emotional support: Helps families prepare for different outcomes and connect with resources

Is Genetic Counselling Right for Everyone?

While not mandatory for all pregnancies, genetic counselling is a valuable tool for those with increased risk factors. Even couples with no known family history may opt for counselling to gain peace of mind.

Genetic counselling empowers parents with knowledge and support to navigate pregnancy with confidence. If recommended by your healthcare provider, it can be a vital part of prenatal care to ensure the best outcomes for you and your baby.

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Pregnant with Monochorionic Twins? Expert Care for a Safe and Healthy Pregnancy

regnant with Monochorionic Twins

Carrying monochorionic twins is a rare and exciting experience, but it also comes with unique challenges that require specialized monitoring and care. Since identical twins share the same placenta, they are at a higher risk of certain pregnancy complications, making regular fetal monitoring essential. At the Institute of Fetal Medicine, Kolkata, we offer advanced prenatal screening and expert fetal care to ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and babies.

Understanding Monochorionic Twins

Monochorionic twins develop when a single fertilized egg splits into two embryos, resulting in genetically identical babies. Unlike fraternal twins, monochorionic twins share a placenta, which increases the risk of specific complications, including:

🔹 Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) – Unequal blood flow between twins due to shared placental circulation, requiring early detection.
🔹 Selective Intrauterine Growth Restriction (sIUGR) – One twin may receive fewer nutrients, leading to restricted growth.
🔹 Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS) – A rare condition where one twin becomes anemic while the other has an excess of red blood cells.
🔹 Cord Entanglement (in Monochorionic-Monoamniotic Twins) – Increased risk in twins sharing the same amniotic sac.

Why Regular Monitoring is Essential

Early detection of complications is key to managing risks and improving outcomes. Our fetal medicine specialists in Kolkata offer:

✔ First Trimester Screening – To assess risk factors and confirm chorionicity (whether twins share a placenta).
✔ Frequent Growth and Doppler Scans – To monitor fetal well-being and detect early signs of TTTS or sIUGR.
✔ Fetal Echocardiography – To assess heart development, as monochorionic twins have a higher risk of congenital heart defects.
✔ Expert Second Opinions & Genetic Counselling – Helping parents make informed decisions regarding their pregnancy.

Why Choose Us for Twin Pregnancy Care?

✔ Best fetal medicine doctor in Kolkata for expert twin pregnancy management.
✔ State-of-the-art fetal care clinic in Kolkata for high-risk pregnancy care.
✔ Advanced fetal medicine services in Kolkata to ensure the safest outcomes.
✔ Dedicated prenatal ultrasound clinic in Kolkata for frequent and specialized monitoring.

Book a Consultation with Our Fetal Medicine Experts

If you are expecting identical twins, don’t leave your pregnancy to chance. Get expert guidance and specialized care at our fetal diagnostics center in Kolkata to ensure a safe and healthy journey for you and your babies.

💙 Your Twins Deserve the Best Care! 💙

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

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?

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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Essential Pregnancy Scans You Should Take for a Healthy Baby

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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