Thalassemia is a genetic blood disorder that affects the production of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Thalassemia is a prevalent disease in many parts of the world. A thalassemia test is essential, especially during pregnancy. If the pregnant mother is detected with alpha thalassemia, the foetus will develop acute anaemia due to a lack of oxygen supply into the cells.
Read on to learn more about the importance of thalassemia testing during pregnancy.
Why is Thalassemia testing important for pregnant women?
Early detection of Thalassemia
Thalassemia is an inherited genetic condition. If both parents are carriers of the thalassemia gene, there is a 25% chance that their child will have thalassemia major, a severe form of the disease. Thalassemia testing during pregnancy can detect the presence of the thalassemia gene in the foetus. Early detection is essential because it allows parents to make informed decisions about the pregnancy.
Better management of Thalassemia
If Thalassemia is detected during pregnancy, the parents can prepare themselves to manage the disease. Thalassemia major requires lifelong blood transfusions and iron chelation therapy, and the earlier these interventions are initiated, the better the outcomes. If the foetus is diagnosed with thalassemia major, the parents can work with their healthcare providers to develop a treatment plan that ensures the best possible outcomes for the child.
Increased prenatal care
Thalassemia testing during pregnancy provides an opportunity for increased prenatal care. If Thalassemia is detected, the parents can work closely with their healthcare providers to ensure the pregnancy is well-managed. Regular check-ups, including ultrasounds and other tests, can help ensure that complications are detected early and addressed promptly.
Reduced risk of complications during delivery
Pregnancies affected by Thalassemia can have increased risks of complications during delivery, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Thalassemia testing during pregnancy can help identify potential risks and allow healthcare providers to develop a management plan that reduces the risk of complications.
Knowledge for future pregnancies
If Thalassemia is detected during pregnancy, the parents can gain valuable knowledge to help them plan for future pregnancies. They can work with their healthcare providers to understand the risks and explore options, such as genetic counselling, to help them make informed decisions about future pregnancies.
Approach the Institute of Fetal Medicine for a thalassemia test during pregnancy. We have state of the art technologies to help with proper thalassemia tests and consultation. To know more, check our website.