Pregnancy brings joy and excitement. But it also brings in the share of questions and concerns. At this stage, fetal medicine can help you. It is a field in healthcare that caters to the needs of unborn babies. At Aster CMI Hospital, we believe in providing expert care with our latest techniques and tools that help us assess the baby’s growth and development and address potential concerns at the earliest.
What is Fetal Medicine?
Fetal medicine is a branch of medicine dealing with screening, diagnosing, and treating health issues of the fetus—the unborn patient. It's all about looking after your unborn baby's health. Our experts can analyze the baby's condition with advanced tests. Sometimes, it can help detect health issues, which can help our experts prepare treatment plans. It is not just about treating problems but to ensure that the baby is healthy throughout the process.
Types of Fetal Medicine
Fetal medicine involves several types of care and procedures. It can be grouped into 3 main categories:
Fetal Screening and Diagnosis
It involves scans and tests carried out to check for structural and genetic abnormalities in the baby. Some common diagnostic tools include:
- Advanced ultrasound scans to assess the baby’s growth and development
- Non-invasive Prenatal testing to detect chromosomal conditions
- Amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling for more detailed genetic testing
- Doppler studies to monitor the blood flow and oxygen supply to the baby
Fetal Therapy and Interventions
In certain cases, doctors may perform treatments for the child before birth. It includes:
- Intrauterine blood transfusions for fetal anaemia
- Procedures to drain excess fluid or relieve pressure in the baby’s body
- Early treatment for infections or complications detected during pregnancy
- Surgical procedures to correct certain birth defects in an unborn baby
Multidisciplinary Fetal Care
Fetal medicine involves experts working closely with other specialists to provide the best care for both mother and baby. It includes:
- Managing twin or multiple pregnancies
- Preparing for conditions that may need immediate treatment after birth
- Coordinating with other specialists for a smooth transition from prenatal to postnatal care
What are the Benefits of Fetal Medicine?
Fetal medicine brings several benefits to the mother and the baby. The most common benefits include:
- Early Detection and Diagnosis: It helps to identify potential issues in the baby at early stages. So that care and support can be planned.
- Better Pregnancy Outcomes: Regular monitoring and early treatment can reduce the risk of complications. It can improve overall pregnancy outcomes.
- Advanced Treatment Options: Some conditions can be treated before birth. It gives a baby a better chance for a healthy life.
- Personalized Care: Each pregnancy is unique. Fetal medicine ensures that experts prepare a care plan to meet your needs.
- Peace of Mind for Parents: Experts closely monitor the baby’s health. It can help you ease your anxiety.
