Pregnancy necessitates regular scans that play a pivotal role in comprehending the baby's growth. These scans are instrumental in enabling doctors to identify potential issues and closely monitor the baby's developmental journey.

In the first trimester, two important scans are performed. The first one, usually done around the 7th or 8th week, helps determine the location of the pregnancy, whether it's in the uterus or outside (ectopic pregnancy). It also checks for the baby's heartbeat and overall health. It can even reveal if it’s a multiple pregnancy.&nbsp;

If the initial scan shows that everything is normal, the next scan called the NT (Nuchal Translucency) scan, takes place between the 11th and 13th weeks. During the NT scan, doctors check for Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities, as well as issues with the baby's brain and spine. This scan is often combined with a blood test from the mother, known as the double marker test, which can be done up to the 14th week. Alternatively, a more accurate test called the NIPT test can be performed later on.&nbsp;

<h2>What are the Double Marker, Quadruple, and NIPT Tests?</h2>

The double marker test, quadruple test, and NIPT test are all blood tests that provide information about the baby's risk of Down syndrome, Edward syndrome, or certain chromosomal disorders. The double marker test is usually done shortly after the third-month scan or NT scan, within a specific time frame.&nbsp;

<h2>Checking the baby's health in fifth month: The Anomaly Scan</h2>

During the 5th month of pregnancy, a crucial scan called the Anomaly Scan is performed between the 18th and 21st week. &nbsp;This scan examines all major organs to ensure they are developing normally. The Anomaly Scan may take longer than usual, especially if the baby isn't in the right position for clear images. It's essential to get the right pictures to accurately measure the baby's growth and development.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-early-detection-saves-lives-regular-gynecologic-screenings-are-key--gynecologic-cancer-awareness-month-634057">Early detection saves lives! Regular gynecologic screenings are key | Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month</a>

<h2>What do doctors check during the anomaly scan?</h2>

During the anomaly scan, doctors look at several parameters to ensure the baby's health is normal from a physical and chromosomal point of view. They examine all the organs of the baby in detail to check for any abnormalities.&nbsp;The kidneys are also examined to ensure they are normal and the right size. Doctors also inspect the bones for any skeletal problems and do a basic check on the heart, although the heart is best seen between the 22nd and 24th weeks. They also recheck markers like T21, T18, and T13 for Down syndrome, Edward syndrome, and Patau syndrome.&nbsp;

<h2>Different scans for monitoring growth</h2>

In various situations, additional scans are done to monitor the baby's growth. These are known as growth scans. They are performed at varying intervals and in the following cases

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets): Varying intervals based on the specific situation, with some special twin cases requiring scans every 2 weeks. For monochorionic diamniotic twins, growth scanning starts at 16 weeks in the second trimester.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;For mothers with conditions like high blood pressure and gestational diabetes, a growth scan is done every 4 weeks.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Cases where doctors identify that the baby is not growing properly, a scan is done every 2-4 weeks, depending on the baby's growth. These scans typically occur in the third trimester.&nbsp;

During scans, doctors look at specific measurements to understand how the baby is developing. These include:

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Abdominal or Tummy Circumference: Evaluating the baby's tummy size. 
●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Head Circumference: Measuring the baby's head size. 
●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Thigh Bone Length (Femur Length): Checking the length of the upper leg bone.

<h2>Advancements in pregnancy scans over the last decade</h2>

Over the past 15 to 20 years, there have been significant improvements in pregnancy scans. These include

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Enhanced Technology: Modern machines used for scans are more advanced and provide clearer images. This improvement allows sonographers and radiologists to see details more effectively.

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Better Operator experience: Over time, medical and technological advancements have led to greater expertise in conducting and interpreting scans. The inputs from these scans have enhanced the skills of the radiologists and sonographers, in turn resulting in better results.&nbsp;

●&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Specialisation: Some doctors specialise in or have extra expertise in Pregnancy scans. This leads to more precise care for expectant mothers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-vitamins-c-and-e-supplements-may-cause-lung-cancers-to-grow-bigger-and-spread-study-finds-634042">Vitamins C and E supplements may cause lung cancers to grow bigger and spread, study finds</a>

<h2>The significance of pregnancy scans</h2>

Getting proper pregnancy scans is crucial because they help detect any issues with the baby at specific stages of development. In some cases, certain problems like Down syndrome or chromosomal issues cannot be changed. However, if the baby has issues like a heart problem or talipes (clubfoot), these can often be treated after birth. It's important to note that some problems may have a poor prognosis for the baby, whether inside or outside the womb, meaning the baby might not survive for long after birth. In such cases, addressing these concerns will only be possible after birth.&nbsp;

Most parents are happy to get the scans and blood tests done as per schedule. However, a small number may choose not to have scans or blood tests and continue with the pregnancy regardless - this is a personal choice depending on the couple’s beliefs. &nbsp;

It is important to follow the recommended schedule for scanning and blood tests because certain issues can only be detected during specific time periods, such as the third and fifth-month scans. Doing the scans too early or too late might result in missing abnormalities. Therefore, it's essential to have scans during these specific times to ensure they are as effective.&nbsp;

(Authored by&nbsp;Dr Prathima Reddy, Director and Lead Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, SPARSH Hospital for Women and Children)

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Pregnancy necessitates regular scans that play a pivotal role in comprehending the baby's growth. These scans are instrumental in enabling doctors to identify potential issues and closely monitor the baby's developmental journey.

Pregnancy necessitates regular scans that play a pivotal role in comprehending the baby's growth. These scans are instrumental in enabling doctors to identify potential issues and closely monitor the baby's developmental journey. In the first trimester, two important scans are performed. The first one, usually done around the 7th or 8th week, helps determine the location of the pregnancy, whether it's in the uterus or outside (ectopic pregnancy). It also checks for the baby's heartbeat and overall health. It can even reveal if it’s a multiple pregnancy. If the initial scan shows that everything is normal, the next scan called the NT (Nuchal Translucency) scan, takes place between the 11th and 13th weeks. During the NT scan, doctors check for Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities, as well as issues with the baby's brain and spine. This scan is often combined with a blood test from the mother, known as the double marker test, which can be done up to the 14th week. Alternatively, a more accurate test called the NIPT test can be performed later on. What are the Double Marker, Quadruple, and NIPT Tests? The double marker test, quadruple test, and NIPT test are all blood tests that provide information about the baby's risk of Down syndrome, Edward syndrome, or certain chromosomal disorders. The double marker test is usually done shortly after the third-month scan or NT scan, within a specific time frame. Checking the baby's health in fifth month: The Anomaly Scan During the 5th month of pregnancy, a crucial scan called the Anomaly Scan is performed between the 18th and 21st week. This scan examines all major organs to ensure they are developing normally. The Anomaly Scan may take longer than usual, especially if the baby isn't in the right position for clear images. It's essential to get the right pictures to accurately measure the baby's growth and development. Also read: Early detection saves lives! Regular gynecologic screenings are key | Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month What do doctors check during the anomaly scan? During the anomaly scan, doctors look at several parameters to ensure the baby's health is normal from a physical and chromosomal point of view. They examine all the organs of the baby in detail to check for any abnormalities. The kidneys are also examined to ensure they are normal and the right size. Doctors also inspect the bones for any skeletal problems and do a basic check on the heart, although the heart is best seen between the 22nd and 24th weeks. They also recheck markers like T21, T18, and T13 for Down syndrome, Edward syndrome, and Patau syndrome. Different scans for monitoring growth In various situations, additional scans are done to monitor the baby's growth. These are known as growth scans. They are performed at varying intervals and in the following cases ● Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets): Varying intervals based on the specific situation, with some special twin cases requiring scans every 2 weeks. For monochorionic diamniotic twins, growth scanning starts at 16 weeks in the second trimester. ● For mothers with conditions like high blood pressure and gestational diabetes, a growth scan is done every 4 weeks. ● Cases where doctors identify that the baby is not growing properly, a scan is done every 2-4 weeks, depending on the baby's growth. These scans typically occur in the third trimester. During scans, doctors look at specific measurements to understand how the baby is developing. These include: ● Abdominal or Tummy Circumference: Evaluating the baby's tummy size. ● Head Circumference: Measuring the baby's head size. ● Thigh Bone Length (Femur Length): Checking the length of the upper leg bone. Advancements in pregnancy scans over the last decade Over the past 15 to 20 years, there have been significant improvements in pregnancy scans. These include ● Enhanced Technology: Modern machines used for scans are more advanced and provide clearer images. This improvement allows sonographers and radiologists to see details more effectively. ● Better Operator experience: Over time, medical and technological advancements have led to greater expertise in conducting and interpreting scans. The inputs from these scans have enhanced the skills of the radiologists and sonographers, in turn resulting in better results. ● Specialisation: Some doctors specialise in or have extra expertise in Pregnancy scans. This leads to more precise care for expectant mothers. Also read: Vitamins C and E supplements may cause lung cancers to grow bigger and spread, study finds The significance of pregnancy scans Getting proper pregnancy scans is crucial because they help detect any issues with the baby at specific stages of development. In some cases, certain problems like Down syndrome or chromosomal issues cannot be changed. However, if the baby has issues like a heart problem or talipes (clubfoot), these can often be treated after birth. It's important to note that some problems may have a poor prognosis for the baby, whether inside or outside the womb, meaning the baby might not survive for long after birth. In such cases, addressing these concerns will only be possible after birth. Most parents are happy to get the scans and blood tests done as per schedule. However, a small number may choose not to have scans or blood tests and continue with the pregnancy regardless - this is a personal choice depending on the couple’s beliefs. It is important to follow the recommended schedule for scanning and blood tests because certain issues can only be detected during specific time periods, such as the third and fifth-month scans. Doing the scans too early or too late might result in missing abnormalities. Therefore, it's essential to have scans during these specific times to ensure they are as effective. (Authored by Dr Prathima Reddy, Director and Lead Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, SPARSH Hospital for Women and Children) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

The vital role of pregnancy scans: Ensuring baby's health and well-being

Maternal nutrition plays a pivotal role in reducing the risk of birth defects, making it a critical aspect of prenatal care. The nutrients a mother consumes during pregnancy are the building blocks for her baby's development and deficiencies can lead to serious congenital abnormalities. Moreover, a well-balanced diet helps mothers decrease the chance of developing gestational diabetes and other metabolic conditions that can contribute to birth defects and complications during pregnancy.

Speaking exclusively to WION,&nbsp;Ms Divya Malik (Senior Nutritionist at Apollo Cradle &amp; Children’s Hospital,&nbsp;Chirag Enclave, New Delhi) said, "Maternal nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy pregnancy. Ensuring that expectant mothers receive proper nutrients and maintain a well-balanced diet can significantly reduce the risk of birth defects and promote the well-being of both the mother and her baby. It highlights the importance of prenatal education and healthcare to support mothers in making informed dietary choices during this critical period."

Adding to it,&nbsp;Dr Nishi Singh (Head of Fertility at Prime IVF) shared, "Maternal nutrition is an essential component of a successful pregnancy. Each bit of food a woman consumes shapes the physique of the foetus. A well-balanced diet high in essential nutrients is, undoubtedly, essential for ensuring a good start and lowering the risk of birth defects. As a medical professional, I emphasise the crucial role of maternal nutrition since a mother's diet is the foundation of her baby's development, and every nutrient-rich choice she makes protects her child from potential abnormalities. It highlights the significant role that women have in shaping how the baby will grow up in health."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-pcos-awareness-month-2023-tips-for-teenage-girls-to-prevent-and-manage-polycystic-ovary-syndrome-633672">PCOS Awareness Month 2023: Tips for teenage girls to prevent and manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome</a>

Here are some key reasons why maternal nutrition is of paramount importance in preventing birth defects:

Proper Growth: Maternal nutrition is critical for ensuring that the baby grows at a healthy rate. Inadequate maternal nutrition can lead to low birth weight and preterm birth, both of which increase the risk of birth defects.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Proper nutrition is often linked to other healthy lifestyle choices such as avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and illicit drug use. These behaviours can contribute to birth defects and are best avoided during pregnancy.

Maternal Health: Maternal nutrition is not only about the baby's health but also about the mother's well-being. A healthy mother is better equipped to carry a pregnancy to full term and provide optimal conditions for her baby's development.

Immune System Support: A well-balanced diet strengthens the mother's immune system, reducing the likelihood of infections during pregnancy. Infections like rubella and cytomegalovirus can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy.

Dr Nisha further added, "A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and important nutrients such as folate, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids must be prioritised. Even while a balanced diet is preferred, prenatal vitamins can help to compensate for nutritional deficiencies. The vital vitamins, minerals, and folic acid she incorporates into her diet are critical components for her baby's proper growth, especially during the first trimester, when the risk of birth defects is greatest. These nutrients play an important role in the development of critical organs and systems. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or walking, can help maintain physical health, but consult your doctor before commencing any fitness plan."

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The content provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on a website.

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Maternal nutrition plays a pivotal role in reducing the risk of birth defects, making it a critical aspect of prenatal care. The nutrients a mother consumes during pregnancy are the building blocks for her baby's development and deficiencies can lead to serious congenital abnormalities.

Maternal nutrition plays a pivotal role in reducing the risk of birth defects, making it a critical aspect of prenatal care. The nutrients a mother consumes during pregnancy are the building blocks for her baby's development and deficiencies can lead to serious congenital abnormalities. Moreover, a well-balanced diet helps mothers decrease the chance of developing gestational diabetes and other metabolic conditions that can contribute to birth defects and complications during pregnancy. Speaking exclusively to WION, Ms Divya Malik (Senior Nutritionist at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Chirag Enclave, New Delhi) said, "Maternal nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy pregnancy. Ensuring that expectant mothers receive proper nutrients and maintain a well-balanced diet can significantly reduce the risk of birth defects and promote the well-being of both the mother and her baby. It highlights the importance of prenatal education and healthcare to support mothers in making informed dietary choices during this critical period." Adding to it, Dr Nishi Singh (Head of Fertility at Prime IVF) shared, "Maternal nutrition is an essential component of a successful pregnancy. Each bit of food a woman consumes shapes the physique of the foetus. A well-balanced diet high in essential nutrients is, undoubtedly, essential for ensuring a good start and lowering the risk of birth defects. As a medical professional, I emphasise the crucial role of maternal nutrition since a mother's diet is the foundation of her baby's development, and every nutrient-rich choice she makes protects her child from potential abnormalities. It highlights the significant role that women have in shaping how the baby will grow up in health." Also read: PCOS Awareness Month 2023: Tips for teenage girls to prevent and manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Here are some key reasons why maternal nutrition is of paramount importance in preventing birth defects: Proper Growth: Maternal nutrition is critical for ensuring that the baby grows at a healthy rate. Inadequate maternal nutrition can lead to low birth weight and preterm birth, both of which increase the risk of birth defects. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Proper nutrition is often linked to other healthy lifestyle choices such as avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and illicit drug use. These behaviours can contribute to birth defects and are best avoided during pregnancy. Maternal Health: Maternal nutrition is not only about the baby's health but also about the mother's well-being. A healthy mother is better equipped to carry a pregnancy to full term and provide optimal conditions for her baby's development. Immune System Support: A well-balanced diet strengthens the mother's immune system, reducing the likelihood of infections during pregnancy. Infections like rubella and cytomegalovirus can cause birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. Dr Nisha further added, "A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and important nutrients such as folate, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids must be prioritised. Even while a balanced diet is preferred, prenatal vitamins can help to compensate for nutritional deficiencies. The vital vitamins, minerals, and folic acid she incorporates into her diet are critical components for her baby's proper growth, especially during the first trimester, when the risk of birth defects is greatest. These nutrients play an important role in the development of critical organs and systems. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or walking, can help maintain physical health, but consult your doctor before commencing any fitness plan." Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The content provided on this website should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, please contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on a website. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Experts stress how proper maternal nutrition can mitigate birth defect risks

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The vital role of pregnancy scans: Ensuring baby's health and well-being

Experts stress how proper maternal nutrition can mitigate birth defect risks