|
Early Pregnancy Assessment
We provide rapid access to diagnostic tests for women with complications of early pregnancy (generally between 5 & 12 weeks of pregnancy). Bleeding or pain in early pregnancy is not uncommon and may provoke a great deal of anxiety. The nature of these problems is that they occur without warning. Hence we will always aim to see people the same day either in Harley St or Parkside Hospital in Wimbledon.
Nuchal Scan
The vast majority of babies are born normal. However, all women have a small risk of delivering a baby with a physical handicap. One cause can be a chromosomal abnormality such as Down's syndrome (see right). The risk of a fetus having such an abnormality can be assessed on the basis of maternal age, a scan and a blood test. You and your partner can then decide if the risk of a fetus having a chromosomal abnormality warrants having an invasive test such as CVS or amniocentesis.
Invasive Tests
These invasive tests examine the chromosomes of the baby. The most common reason they are performed is to exclude Down's syndrome, but many other chromosome abnormalities can also be excluded. The principal concern for any women undergoing these tests is the risk of miscarriage. This is approximately 1% for both of the following procedures.
Fetal
Anomaly Scan
This scan is performed between 18 weeks and 22 weeks of pregnancy. Measurements are taken to assess fetal growth and the appearance and position of the placenta. A detailed examination of fetal anatomy is performed to confirm that there are no major anomalies. The fetus is also examined for minor variations of normal anatomy which are found more commonly in babies with chromosomal abnormalities.
Fetal Growth Scan
& Assessment
These scans are performed between 24 and 42 weeks. More than one scan may be required. The aim is to check the growth and health of the baby. This is carried out by:
- Measuring the baby’s head, abdomen and thigh bone
- Assessing the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby
- Recording the presence of fetal movements
- Noting the appearance and position of the placenta
- Measuring the blood flow in the umbilical cord and fetal vessels using
Doppler Ultrasound
3D and 4D Ultrasound Scans
This scan provides you with a three dimensional image of your baby. The best time to perform the scan is between 28/32 weeks of pregnancy. The health your baby is of primary concern and we will always begin the scan by assessing the baby's growth. Sometimes the baby is not in a favourable position to perform the scan, in this case we will ask you to go for a walpk or drink some water.
We will record a short DVD of your baby for you to take away with you. Bookings and enquiries can be made via our Harley Street office.
|
