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Third Trimester Scan During Pregnancy
After getting through all the hurdles and bearing with so many changes in your body and lifestyle because of your pregnancy, you have finally made it to the third trimester. As your due date draws closer and the time for you to hold your baby in your arms is approaching, your doctor is most likely going to ask you to go in for a third-trimester growth scan.
What is a Third Trimester Growth Scan?
This is a routine procedure that is performed to check the baby’s growth and development and to see whether any complications lie ahead. The scan is meant to measure your baby’s abdominal circumference, head and legs. You will be advised to have a growth scan at 28 weeks and another growth scan at 32 weeks.
Why is this Scan Done?
Here are some reasons your doctor may ask you to get these scans done:
Multiple Babies: Twins or triplets have a higher chance of developing growth problems in the womb due to there being so little space. Doctors will want to ensure that all is well.
Monitor Size And Well-Being: If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, your doctor will want to perform these tests to make sure that your baby is not having trouble growing. Sometimes there are concerns that the baby is too small or too big.
Symptoms Of Complications: Your doctor will need to check on the condition of your baby if you have any symptoms of complications. These could include pain, reduced fetal movement or even bleeding.
Anatomy Review: Your doctor may need to double check the state of any suspected abnormalities that may have been discovered during the ultrasound done at around 19 weeks.
Placental Review: Sometimes the placenta can show as being very low during the 19-week ultrasound. This usually corrects itself as you enter your third trimester as it gets pulled away from the cervix due to the growing uterus.
Assessing Position: This becomes more important the closer you get to your due date as the doctor will need to be sure the baby is in the right position to be born.
What will the Doctor Examine during the Scan?
The scans during the third trimester will always be done based on your own medical history and based on the results of your previous ultrasounds. Here are a few things that the doctor will examine during the ultrasound:
1. Baby Measurements:
Usually, a baby’s measurements will depend on the parents. The baby’s head, abdominal muscles and the length of the leg are what will be looked at and measured against the standard
2. Amniotic Fluid:
There needs to be a certain amount present in order for your baby to grow well. There are wide ranges of these fluids during pregnancy, though it will change according to the stage of pregnancy.
3. Baby’s Heart Rate and Rhythm:
The average heartbeat a baby should have is about 120-180 beats per minute. The heart rate of your baby will probably vary. Just like for adults.
4. Position Of Placenta:
The inner end of the placenta should not be lying too close to the cervix, a phenomenon called “placenta praevia.”
5. Length of Cervix:
This is most important if you go into premature labour, have vaginal bleeding and are experiencing pain. In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound will be done to see exactly what the problem is.
6. 3D Images of Baby:
Some parents request to see their babies in the womb, and now it is even better as there are ways to take 3D images of the child in the womb.
7. Size of Baby:
The estimated fetal weight (EFW) is usually compared to other fetuses of the same gestational age. An EFW which shows on the 50th percentile is considered to be the average size. Anything lower than the 10th percentile is a small baby, and if the percentile is above 90, it is a big baby.
8. Blood Flow in Umbilical Cord:
The measurements of the baby’s blood flow in the umbilical cord are measured using something called Doppler studies. These are very helpful in determining the well-being and health of your baby. For those babies that are not developing properly, there will be a change in the blood flow, and this is what the doctors monitor as they will be able to assess if the baby needs to be delivered early or not.
9. Position of Baby:
There are three ways in which your baby could be positioned inside the womb. These are the cephalic position (Heads down), breech position (buttocks down, head at the top of the uterus) and the transverse position (baby is sideways, across the uterus). The doctors will pay closer attention to this closer to the end of the gestation period.
10. The Uterus:
The uterus needs to be checked for any problems. For example, if a mother has uterine fibroids, they will be identified and their location noted by the doctor.
What will the Baby Look Like in the Scan?
Though most think that the bigger the baby gets, the easier it is to see, this could not be further from the truth. It gets much harder to see the baby, and most often the baby will be looked at in parts.
It is very much possible to get some beautiful and clear pictures of your baby while he is still in the womb. There are a few things that influence how well the baby can be seen and what parts of the baby are visible. The baby’s position, the mother’s abdomen and the volume of amniotic fluids present in the womb all play important roles here.
What 3rd Trimester Scan Can’t Reveal?
Here are a few things 3rd-trimester scans cannot reveal:
Baby Weight: The bigger the baby, the harder it becomes to assess all the information wanted about its growth. The baby’s weight is something the doctor cannot make out as sometimes the positioning will hinder the ability to measure the head, abdomen and legs of the baby.
Blood Source: If there is any bleeding, the scans won’t be able to tell where it is coming from.
Due Date: Your due date should already have been established before 20 weeks of gestation as babies become unique in size and shape.
Is Third Trimester Scan Safe?
Though these scans are perfectly safe and do not have any side-effects, your doctor may only advise you to get one done if he suspects something is amiss.
FAQ's
In the third trimester, the ultrasound is done using the transabdominal ultrasound, where the scan is done through the abdomen, using a clear gel and probe. Another way of monitoring your baby’s growth and progress is through the transvaginal ultrasound. This involves the probe lying in the vagina. Your permission is always required before a transvaginal ultrasound is performed.
1. Do I Need A Full Bladder for Third Trimester Ultrasound?
A partially filled bladder is ideal for the transabdominal ultrasound as the images will be clearer. It should not be so full that it becomes painful. If this is the case, you will be asked to empty your bladder a bit before continuing. If the transvaginal ultrasound is needed, you will be asked to empty your bladder before starting.
2. Why Do Women Sometimes Feel Faint during Third Trimester Ultrasound Scan?
When you lie down, the vena cava at the back of your abdomen becomes compressed due to the weight of the baby. This cause you to become nauseous and faint, especially if you are carrying a large baby or carrying more than one child. If you experience this while lying down for your ultrasound, it is always best to tell your sonographer as you will then be able to stop and either move to lying slightly on your side or change to a more upright position before you start to feel worse.
As babies grow in spurts, doctors often advise you to undergo a series of scans rather than just the one scan as this will enable them to compile information about your baby’s well-being with more accuracy. Though it may seem troubling to you when you are asked to go in for these scans, remember that it does not always mean there is definitely going to be a complication; most often it is done to ensure that all is well. Even if there is something to be worried about, it is always best to be able to deal with the issues as early as possible so that you and your baby will have a brighter future.
Also Read:
First Trimester Scans during Pregnancy
Pregnancy Ultrasound Scans Read more
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Helping Your Child Learn Name, Age and Gender
Name, age and gender are three important pillars on which your child’s safety and social standing depend. For your child to perceive himself and be perceived as a member of society, it is important that he understand these three concepts. So, how can you help him understand these things?
Most kids learn how to say their name, age and gender as they start school and interact with other kids. However, here are a few ways in which you can speed up their learning and make sure their fundamentals are clear:
1. Explain to Him The Meaning of These Terms
Even though this may seem elementary to you, the concept of name, age and gender is still abstract for your child. Explain to him that his name is what people use to call him, just as Mummy’s name is Mala, for instance. Likewise, explain to him that his age is how long it has been since he first came into the world. Finally, make the concept of gender clear by pointing towards boys and girls and indicating similarities and differences. This will let him understand what his gender is.
2. Call Him Using His Name and Encourage Him To Use It Too
For your child to clearly associate himself with his name, it is essential that you start making these references. Use his name in day to day conversation and also ask your family members to do this. For example, say “Rahul, can you get me a spoon from the kitchen?” Similarly, use his name when talking about him to other people (in his presence). So you can say “Rahul loves reading his red book.” This will help reinforce the connection between your child and his name.
3. Place His Name, Age and Gender Details Around The House
The house is a terrific learning environment for your kids as this is where they spend most of their time. Make sure there are many chances for them to see their name, age and gender around the house. You can put a placard with his name outside his room and label it “Rahul’s Room”. Similarly, you can put up his picture and brightly caption it with “Rahul is a 5 year old boy”. These visual reminders will help him remember the details better and also understand what they mean.
4. Make This Learning a Part of The Daily Routine
Nothing works like practice when it comes to learning! Understanding name, age and gender needs to be something they spend time on every day. For example, if there is a playdate or party at home, ask every child to say their name, age and gender before participating in every activity. Organise games that require them to address each other using their name. Say, if they are playing “Pass the Ball” and the ball stops at a child named Priya, the other kids have to say out loud – “Priya!” Likewise, make your instructions age and gender specific to help embed this concept in their mind. Say, “All five year olds, please come to the dining table.” Or, “All girls will now stand up.”
5. Play The “Knock, Knock” Game
This age-old game that involves asking “Knock, knock!” and “Who’s there?” can be a brilliant way to help your kids understand these concepts. You can play this with your child any time of the day. Use interesting question variation such as “Knock, knock!” “Is it a boy or a girl?” and “How old is the person behind the door?”
6. Use Pictures, Books And Music To Help You
Visual and sound guides are always a great help when it comes to kids. Use books that have pictures of kids and point toward them saying “That is a boy” or “She is a girl”. Similarly, when your child recites a poem about body parts, get him to point toward himself and say his name.
7. Prompt Him With The Answers To Encourage Him
As your child learns, he is sure to make mistakes and forget certain things even after you have gone through them repeatedly. Boost his confidence by prompting him when he seems to be getting confused. For example, if he is asked his name and it starts with “K”, you can make that sound. It will help him make the connection and pronounce his full name. Read more
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How to Deal with Amniotic Band Syndrome (ABS)
The amniotic sac is a thin but tough membrane that surrounds the baby while it develops inside the mother. It functions as a safe house that allows the embryo to grow undisturbed by external shocks as the sac is filled with amniotic fluid. This fluid acts as a cushion and also provides the foetus with space to move around during its early development.
What is Amniotic Band Syndrome?
While the amniotic sac is relatively safe, there are instances when this sanctuary for the foetus becomes dangerous. This is because there are instances when the fibrous strands present in the sac entangle the foetus and is known as ABS. Unfortunately, there is no definitive cause that has been discovered for ABS. However, there are multiple theories that have been put forward, two of which have gained traction.
Alternative Names of ABS Disease
Some of the other names that the disease is known as include:
Annular band constriction
Intrauterine amputation
Amniotic Deformity, Adhesions and Mutilations
Limb-body wall complex
Streeter’s amputation
Aberrant tissue bands
How Common is It?
The likelihood of ABS is rare with an incidence rate of 1 in 1200 live births to 1 in 15000 live births. As genetics is ruled out, the possibility of a second pregnancy leading to ABS is minimal, making it even rarer.
Causes of ABS
There are several causes of ABS. Here are some you should be aware of
Extrinsic Theory: This is the widely popular theory. The amniotic sac is composed of an outer and inner layer; sometimes, without any damage to the outer layer, the inner wall linings tear and start floating in the amniotic fluid. This presents a dangerous situation for the foetus as the bands of the membrane can get entangled on its fragile and growing body.
Intrinsic Theory: The above theory however does not explain all ABS conditions such as cases where the amniotic sac is intact, but ABS persists. This theory suggests that it is poor blood flow that causes the deformities but fails to explain the reason for the poor blood flow.
Signs and Symptoms
Some of the probable ways of knowing if your child has ABS include:
Crease marks on parts of the body of your child such as the hand, legs or fingers
A gap on the head or torso
The size of the limbs is unequal
Swelling of different parts of the body due to the wrapping of the bands
Complications
The effects of amniotic band syndrome vary from case to case. Below are some of the issues that the baby would have if they have ABS:
Limbs are of different length
The fingers or toes are webbed
The fingers or toes are fused together
Nails are deformed
When the band gets wrapped around the umbilical cord or the head resulting in the death of the foetus.
The band can get entangled around one of the legs and restrict its mobility which can lead to clubbed feet.
The bands can get tightly wrapped around one of the limbs to an extent where the blood flow is constricted. This can lead to possible amputation of the limb.
There are crease marks on the skin due to the entanglement
The baby is born with the bands still attached to their bodies.
Cleft lip and palate
How is the Diagnosis Done?
For diagnosing amniotic band syndrome ultrasound is conducted around the third month of pregnancy. The bands themselves are fine and it may be difficult for the obstetrician to spot them. A deduction is made by looking at any deformities that are associated with ABS.
Treatment
The treatment for ABS depends on a host of factors such as area affected, the extent of damage and the stability of the child.
Clubfeet: This can be corrected with the help of casts
Cleft Lip And Palate: Reconstructive surgery when the child is 3-6 months old. Other factors such as the extent of damage and the infant’s feeding capabilities also need to be taken into consideration.
Webbed Fingers: Amniotic band syndrome hand surgery after birth is the preferred option for those with webbed digits.
Missing Limbs: Prosthetics can be used for those who lose a large part of their legs or hands. 3D printing has also become very popular as models can be made with anyone with a 3D printer and an internet connection.
Management of ABS During Pregnancy
Once it has been established that stray bands of amnions are present, the situation must be monitored closely. If the bands are not touching the foetus, there is no intervention that is required. However, if the bands are life-threatening or can cause deformity, a surgery called foetoscopy is recommended. The surgery involves a small incision in the abdomen through which a tiny camera is inserted to look inside the amniotic sac. A laser is then used to cut the entangled bands to reduce pressure and allow the healthy development of the foetus.
Special Consideration During Childbirth with Amniotic Band Syndrome
Due to the possible complications involved, below are some of the precautions that must be taken if your baby is under the risk of ABS.
A caesarean section is the preferred method of delivery to avoid further entanglement. Have multiple sessions with your doctor in advance to educate yourself on the risks involved for you and the child.
Some hospitals may not be equipped with the requisite facilities to take care of the afterbirth needs of a baby with ABS. For instance, surgeries are conducted on newborns as early as three days after birth to remove the bands.
It would be unwise to request for inducing an early delivery for every case of ABS. This form of delivery is only applicable when the bands get entangled with the foetus towards the end of the pregnancy and pose a health risk.
Knowing that your unborn baby has ABS may be a little frightening at first. However, once the syndrome is understood it becomes apparent that it can be managed through continuous monitoring.
Also Read: Polyhydramnios Read more
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5 Funny Things Shopping Addicts Can Relate To
Who cares if people think you like to shop. You can always pass it off as a hobby. But there are funny tell-tale signs that make you look like the one with the shopaholic addiction. If being fashionable and shopping loving is a crime, then you might admit to being guilty!
If you put in more research when shopping than while completing a work assignment, you’re surely addicted to retail therapy. As long as the addiction doesn’t leave you bankrupt, shopping never killed anybody! Here are some funny things you can relate to if you always have shopping on your mind with an overworked credit card to boot.
5 Funny Things Shopping Addicts Can Relate To
1. Remember?
You know you are a shopaholic when you can’t keep track of the stuff you've ordered. You might have packages arriving at your doorstep that you don’t remember ordering. Of course! The joy of seeing a package might make you get over the initial shock. You might have to start maintaining a book to keep a track of your orders. Girl, you have a shopaholic addiction.
2. Argue and Then Shop
You know you have a shopping problem when an argument can trigger a shopping spree. You might need to shop to fill an empty void. Getting professional help could be the solution here. You would not want to make debts for yourself. On the flip side, it could help you control your temper too. The thought of buying a new pair of shoes could help you get distracted and get over anger easily.
3. Got it Memorised
One of the symptoms of shopping addiction is heightened memory. You may ask – why is that a bad thing? Well, memorising your debit card number means more shopping. You'll be compelled to pick up things just because you have the required buying information memorised. This means you would not need to choose the ‘save password for later’ option. Your debit card number could be the only thing you remember by heart, of course after your birthday!
4. No Repeats
Have you ever repeated outfits? No? Well, you might just be a shopping junkie. One of the first signs of a shopaholic is not remembering what you bought last. You probably haven’t worn the same outfit for years. This also means you must definitely have more than one cupboard dedicated to clothes. It also means your shopping bills amount to obscene amounts. You might want to start donating clothes to charity. There may come a time when you have to make space for your next few rounds of shopping.
5. Friends with Benefit
Do you shop so often that your contact list has more numbers of salespersons than your own friends? Er! You have a problem lady. The need to always shop means you have a social circle comprising influential people from your favourite stores. You probably get the best treatment and first-hand scoop on the best deals. This is definitely one of the funniest effects of shopping addiction, one that can invite snide remarks too.
All said and done, shopping is, after all, fun. Just make sure you keep a check on your addiction (and your wallet)! Read more
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Glider Swing Buying Guide
What is a Glider Swing?
A glider swing combines all the requisites of a swing with the gliding feature, which makes it all the more attractive. It comes with a wide array of options like music, removable infant supports, roomy and extremely comfortable seats, and has vibration features to comfort babies when they are restless or agitated. It is an excellent gift for baby showers since parents will love using it every day – mostly to keep their baby occupied and quiet while they are busy with other chores. It can be used for children weighing 2.5 kg to 13.5 kg, which is right from birth to approximately 1.5 years.
Features of a Glider Swing
Glider Swing
Must Haves
Motion, Speed, Sound and Light Control Unit: Most baby swings offer a control panel which allows gliding motion, speed, sound and light settings in accordance to your baby's preference.
5-point Safety Harness: To keep the baby secured in the swing seat.
DC Battery Slot: The battery operated swings offer portability.
Sturdy Frame: To ensure even weight distribution of the growing child and allow for some safe movement within the harness.
Removable and Washable Seat Cover: To maintain hygiene, just in case baby throws up or spills foods and liquids.
Good to Haves
Mobile Toys With Light: Felt or cloth toys for the baby's entertainment and stimulation.
Detachable Seat: To carry the baby with you and keep it by your side.
AC Adapter: For a battery-free operation.
Canopy: Provides shade if the baby wants to take a nap.
Non-toxic Fabric: Given the baby's inclination to chew at its seat covers, a non-toxic fabric is good to have.
Pros and Cons of a Glider Swing
Pros
Cons
Compact design: Takes up less space as compared to other baby gear.
Music might irritate babies and parents.
Detachable seat allows you to carry your baby across the home.
Noisy operation can interfere with your baby's sleep pattern.
The plug-in charging facility saves battery life and cost.
Babies might break flimsy toy bars/ canopies, making them safety hazards.
Has a removable toy bar for the baby's entertainment.
As the baby grows, it becomes difficult to rock/ swing owing to weak motor capabilities.
Its gentle rocking action soothes the baby and provides comfort.
The gliding motion of entire swing seat consumes batteries frequently.
Easy to maintain and clean.
Good value for money and space saver substitute to the nursery glider chair.
Read more
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
12 hours ago
Q. when baby is kick? I'm 13 weeks pregnant
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
12 hours ago
A. during first pregnancy you may feel the baby movements after 24 to 25 weeks of pregnancy and till then only mild flatters may be felt but which you may not be feeling if you are doing some work
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
12 hours ago
Q. I’m in my 31 week 1 day of pregnancy. What will be my delivery date??
As I have low lying placenta with grade 1 maturity.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
11 hours ago
A. you had to correlate is ultrasound examination. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
12 hours ago
Q. My hemoglobin is 6.4 from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Now I’m 31 weeks pregnant. What should I do?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
11 hours ago
A. Haven’t when you having some kind of iron supplement because they’re very good during the time of pregnancy if you are not having one you need to start with and whatever tabs you take you should just take it with any good juice specially pomegranate juice that’s going to help in doubling the impact of the medicine that you’re taking secondly try and include more of Iron which diet like spinach broccoli beetroot pomegranate black rice sweet potato these things are exceptionally healthy for you to consume
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
11 hours ago
Q. This is my cbc report
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
11 hours ago
A. No there is nothing visible on my wall so I can really really cannot help you can you please repose the question once again providing all the necessary details as once I’m certain what are you talking about what’s mentioned in the report according to that I can provide you proper help on your question
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
9 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
now I'm 24 weeks. Sometimes I'm feeling pain in my thigh.
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
9 hours ago
A. For thegh query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Onlfine consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answer .
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
what is the pain killer than can be taken by a breastfeeding mother to deal with pain of stitches after delivery?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. dolo 650 safe analgesic. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
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