The field of fetal medicine is a beacon of hope and innovation in prenatal care, dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of both the fetus and the mother. Fetal medicine involves a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing, managing, and treating fetal conditions, ranging from structural abnormalities to genetic disorders and complex medical issues detected during pregnancy.
At its core, fetal medicine represents a profound commitment to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to expectant parents facing challenging pregnancies. Fetal medicine experts at KD Blossom Women and Child Care Department, a leading women’s care facility in Ahmedabad, strive to identify fetal abnormalities at the earliest stages of development. Advanced technologies, state-of-the-art imaging modalities, and cutting-edge diagnostic techniques enable timely interventions and tailored treatment plans.
Fetal medicine at KD Blossom embraces a holistic approach, addressing physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs while recognising the interconnectedness of maternal and fetal health. At KD Blossom Women and Child Care Department– the best center for gynaecological care – a team of leading doctors and specialists, including gynaecologists, fetal medicine experts, genetic counsellors, neonatologists, and paediatricians, collaborate to offer personalised support and guidance throughout the pregnancy journey.
As the premier hospital for fetal medicine in Ahmedabad, KD Blossom provides comprehensive evaluation and diagnostics at every stage of fetal development, including the following services:
Early pregnancy scan
The early pregnancy scan, also known as the dating or viability scan, is an important milestone performed within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. This ultrasound examination confirms the presence of a viable intrauterine pregnancy, determines gestational age, and assesses fetal well-being during the earliest stages of embryonic development.
The early pregnancy scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the uterus and the developing fetus. It is a non-invasive procedure involving the placement of a small probe or transducer on the abdomen or, in some cases, vaginally for better visualisation, depending on gestational age and uterine position.
Key objectives of the early pregnancy scan include:
The NT scan is a prenatal screening test conducted between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. This ultrasound measures the thickness of the nuchal translucency, a fluid-filled space at the back of the baby’s neck. Increased thickness may indicate specific chromosomal abnormalities, such as down syndrome, edwards syndrome, or patau syndrome, as well as other genetic disorders and congenital heart defects.
To improve the accuracy of detecting chromosomal abnormalities, the nuchal translucency (NT) scan is often paired with blood tests, such as maternal serum screening or non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT).
The TIFFA scan, conducted between 18 and 22 weeks, is a detailed ultrasound designed to detect structural abnormalities or anomalies in the developing fetus. This comprehensive examination evaluates various fetal organs to identify potential irregularities.
The TIFFA scan plays a vital role in assessing fetal growth and diagnosing conditions such as congenital heart defects, neural tube defects, or organ malformations. Early detection through the TIFFA scan allows for appropriate medical management and planning for the baby’s care after birth.
Pre-eclampsia is a form of hypertension that some pregnant women experience after the 20th week of pregnancy. This condition involves high blood pressure and potential organ damage. Screening methods include monitoring blood pressure, testing urine for protein, and evaluating risk factors such as obesity, medical history, and maternal age.
Additional tests, such as liver and kidney function assessments, may be conducted to detect complications. Early diagnosis of pre-eclampsia enables effective monitoring and management, reducing risks for both the mother and baby.
Fetal echocardiography is a specialised ultrasound performed between 22 and 24 weeks of pregnancy to assess the structure and function of the baby's heart. This non-invasive procedure produces detailed images of the heart's chambers, valves, and blood vessels, helping to identify any congenital heart abnormalities early on.
Early diagnosis enables timely medical management and planning for postnatal interventions, which improves the likelihood of a healthy outcome for the baby.
The fetal growth scan, conducted between 28 weeks and term, assesses the baby’s size, development, and overall growth trajectory. This ultrasound supplies essential details regarding the estimated fetal weight, head circumference, and other measurements, ensuring the baby is developing for its gestational age.
The growth scan is essential for detecting conditions such as macrosomia (excessive fetal growth) or fetal growth restriction, allowing for early interventions when necessary.
The BPP is a third-trimester assessment that combines ultrasound imaging with evaluations of fetal movement, breathing patterns, muscle tone, and amniotic fluid volume. Each parameter is assigned a score, helping physicians determine the overall well-being of the fetus.
This comprehensive evaluation is crucial for monitoring high-risk pregnancies and making informed decisions regarding delivery timing.
The advancements in fetal medicine offered at KD Blossom Women and Child Care Department, home to the best gynaecologists in Ahmedabad, are revolutionising prenatal care. Through a holistic approach and state-of-the-art technologies, their dedicated team ensures early detection and personalised management of fetal conditions.