Gynaecology Archives - Pulse Clinic

All You Need To Know About Colour Doppler Scan

When Neeti Shinde entered her 27th week, she became concerned about her baby’s growth. Her baby bump was barely noticeable and it was difficult to tell she was pregnant. Her 18 weeks level 2 scan was normal so she couldn’t help question what else it may be. During a regular antenatal checkup at 31 weeks, it was suspected that the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby was somewhat less. “We then recommended an ultrasound for evaluating the growth of the baby along with a Doppler scan during the third trimester,” said Dr. Swati Gaikwad. A Doppler scan is an ultrasound that is usually suggested in high-risk pregnancies, if the mother is diabetic or has high blood pressure, or in the situation of slow-growing babies, twins, or a previous history of stillbirth. The Doppler scan is usually done during the third trimester and it evaluates the blood flow going to the baby and inside its cord, heart, and brain.

Preparing for Doppler Scan Through Third Trimester

“How should I prepare for the Colour Doppler scan?” asked Neeti. “You do not require to specifically prepare for a Doppler scan. It is performed like any other ultrasound and is harmless. It only takes a couple of minutes longer than conventional ultrasound.

Results of Doppler Scan During Third Trimester

“What can I expect the scan to confer?” asked Neeti, concerned. “The results enable us to compare the development of your baby with the results from your past scan at about 18-20 weeks. “ If Doppler flows show that there is insufficient blood flow in the umbilical artery and the baby is not properly oxygenated, then the scan may need to be repeated to observe the baby. If the blood flow to the baby drops below the critical level, then an early delivery may need to be done. Comforted by Dr. Swati’s words, Neeti understood she had nothing to be afraid of. She also understood the significance of the Doppler scan during the third trimester.

Neeti’s Doppler Scan Results

When Neeti’s Doppler scan results came, she was comforted to know there was sufficient blood flow to the baby. Repeat ultrasounds demonstrated a steadily growing baby. She went into labor instinctively at 38 weeks and delivered a healthy baby normally.

What Your Gynaecologist Wants You To Know About Pregancy Care?

Having a healthy pregnancy is one of the best ways to improve a healthy birth. Going early and regularly for pregnancy care and check-ups can help mommies-to-be — and their babies — stay healthy.

Pregnancy care is an important element of staying healthy during pregnancy. Your gynaecologist will monitor your future baby’s growth and do routine testing to help find and prevent possible problems. These regular visits are also a great way to learn how to ease any discomfort you may have, and ask any questions about your pregnancy and the birth of your future baby.

You should schedule your first checkup in the first 6 to 8 weeks of your pregnancy. If your first check-up results are normal then your Obstetrician will ask you to schedule every 4 weeks until the 28th week of pregnancy. Then, every 2 weeks until 36 weeks. And then, once a week until your delivery.

With regular pregnancy care, you can reduce the risk of pregnancy-related complications. Following a healthy, safe diet, doing regular exercise as advised by your Obstetrician, and avoiding exposure to potentially harmful substances such as lead and radiation can help reduce the risk for problems during pregnancy and improve your baby’s health and development. Regulating existing conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, is important to prevent serious complexities and their effects.

Ultrasound can be used for a variety of reasons during pregnancy. Your Obstetrician may also order more ultrasounds if they detect a problem in previous ultrasound or blood test. While ultrasound technology is safe for both mother and child, healthcare practitioners try to avoid the use of ultrasounds when there is no medical reason or benefit.

To keep you and your baby healthy and safe, it is important that you don’t smoke or drink liquor. You should eat healthy meals and get sufficient folic acid and practice regular exercise and visit your gynaecologist on regular basis.