Fetal Gender, Amniocentesis Risks, and IVF Options in Taiwan

excuse me?

1.
At what month of pregnancy can the fetus's sex be determined?
2.
At what age should pregnant women consider undergoing amniocentesis, and what are the associated risks?
3.
I am a resident of Xinzhuang; does your hospital offer artificial insemination services?

Zi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/09/23

Dr. Dong Yuhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
After becoming pregnant, expectant mothers and fathers are not only curious about the gender of their baby but also feel the pressure from family members to find out whether the baby is a boy or a girl.
If relying on ultrasound examinations, results are typically available around 15 weeks, provided the fetus is willing to show.
If during the pregnancy there is a need for chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis, the results of these tests will reveal the gender.
There are also expectant parents who have heard about other methods to determine the baby's gender through a blood draw from the mother.
2.
Advanced maternal age or any pregnant woman who has previously had a fetus with chromosomal abnormalities, anencephaly, spina bifida, or other anomalies, or if abnormalities are detected during prenatal check-ups, as well as couples with chromosomal abnormalities or specific diseases, are advised to undergo amniocentesis.
Amniocentesis carries risks such as infection, rupture of membranes, and miscarriage, but the chances of these complications occurring are approximately 0.1% to 0.3%.
If a pregnant woman experiences symptoms related to these complications or suspects the possibility of complications after the procedure, she should seek medical attention promptly.
3.
Our hospital provides infertility-related examinations and consultations; however, treatment for infertility requires evaluation by a physician.

Reply Date: 2009/09/23

More Info

When it comes to understanding fetal gender, the risks associated with amniocentesis, and the options for in vitro fertilization (IVF) in Taiwan, there are several important aspects to consider.

1. Determining Fetal Gender: In general, fetal gender can typically be determined via ultrasound around the 18 to 20-week mark of pregnancy. However, some advanced imaging techniques can sometimes provide this information as early as 14 weeks. It's important to note that while ultrasound is a common method, it is not always 100% accurate. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which analyzes fetal DNA in the mother's blood, can also determine gender as early as 10 weeks into the pregnancy with a high degree of accuracy.

2. Amniocentesis and Its Risks: Amniocentesis is a procedure usually recommended for women who are at higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as those over the age of 35. The procedure involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus, which can provide valuable information about genetic conditions. While amniocentesis can be very informative, it does carry some risks. The most significant risk is miscarriage, which occurs in about 1 in 300 to 1 in 500 procedures. Other potential risks include infection, injury to the fetus, and leakage of amniotic fluid. Therefore, it is crucial for expectant mothers to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision.

3. IVF Options in Taiwan: In Taiwan, IVF is a widely accepted treatment for infertility, and many hospitals offer these services. The success rates for IVF can vary based on several factors, including the woman's age, the cause of infertility, and the specific protocols used by the fertility clinic. Generally, the success rate for IVF in Taiwan is around 30% per cycle, but this can be higher or lower depending on individual circumstances. It is advisable for couples considering IVF to consult with a fertility specialist who can provide tailored advice based on their medical history and fertility assessments.

In addition to IVF, there are other fertility treatments available, such as ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and lifestyle modifications that can enhance fertility. If a couple has been trying to conceive for over a year without success, it is recommended to seek medical advice to explore these options further.

In summary, understanding fetal gender can be achieved through ultrasound and NIPT, while amniocentesis is a valuable but risky procedure for genetic testing, particularly for older mothers. For those in New Taipei City (such as Xinzhuang), there are numerous hospitals and clinics that offer IVF and other fertility treatments. It is essential to have open discussions with healthcare providers to navigate these options effectively and safely.

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