The decision to become a parent can be an exciting and overwhelming time. Part of the process of planning to start a family may be a discussion with healthcare professionals including genetic counselors and maternal-fetal medicine specialists. Today, it is easier than ever to speak with experts about your questions and concerns.
Genetic Counseling
Genetic counselors are trained medical professionals who work closely with patients to discuss genetic principles and their relevance within pregnancies. They use medical, pregnancy, and family histories to identify and assess potential risks within a pregnancy or an individual. Genetic counselors also discuss the basics of genetic principles and the options for genetic testing within pregnancies or individuals. Whether this be related to testing already performed within a pregnancy or an existing genetic condition in an individual or their family.
Preeclampsia is a potentially serious medical condition with various causes, risk factors, symptoms, potential complications, and treatment options.
During your pregnancy, you have multiple testing options available. Some are described as screening and some are described as diagnostic. There are differences between these tests and the information they provide about your pregnancy.
Traveling, especially during the holiday season, is common among many people. However, for pregnant women, traveling might present a specific set of challenges. Continue reading →
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that between five to 20 percent of the
American population contracts the flu each year. More than 200,000 people are
hospitalized annually due to the flu and related complications, and it results in over 17
million sick days per year. At least 3,000 people die from the flu each year. Continue reading →
It’s common for pregnant mothers to experience intense cravings for certain foods. Pregnancy causes a variety of hormone changes that can then trigger these cravings. While the prevailing notion is that of a pregnant wom
an wanting pickles and ice cream, the reality is usually a little less extreme. One of the most common cravings is the desire for something sweet. This begs the question: is eating sugar safe during pregnancy? Continue reading →
What Is A Fetal Echocardiogram? A fetal echocardiogram is a specialized ultrasound that takes detailed images of the fetal heart. Using sound waves, the ultrasound maps out the shape and development of the interior and exterior of the heart. It can also show the cardiac blood flow and heartbeat rhythm. Using the results of these scans, doctors can detect cardiac dysfunction and abnormalities during fetal development.
Almost every pregnant mother undergoes at least a few ultrasound scans during the course of her pregnancy. Ultrasound scanning has been used for decades and is one of the easiest and most effective ways of getting a clear image of the fetus inside the womb. Expecting mothers may express concerns regarding the potential effects ultrasound exposure may have on their baby. Here are basic facts to know regarding ultrasound exposure during your pregnancy.
Spina bifida is a birth defect that is classified as a neural tube defect. It occurs when the bones of the spine and the nerve membranes surrounding the spine do not form properly. Spina bifida can range from mild to severe. The location, size and nerve involvement of the spinal defect has a direct correlation to the severity of spina bifida. Most cases of spina bifida are generally mild and do not require intervention. More severe cases may require surgical intervention after the baby is born.
