Understanding the Differences Between Vaginal, Transabdominal, and High-Resolution Ultrasounds
What is a transvaginal ultrasound / high-level ultrasound / abdominal ultrasound? Dr. Zhao: Hello! I found information about ultrasounds online and would like to ask you about the differences between the types of ultrasounds mentioned in the topic, as well as when pregnant women ...
Dr. Zhao Chengxiang Reply:
Hello Amy, here is a brief introduction. 1. Transvaginal Ultrasound: This ultrasound examination is performed using a probe inserted into the vagina, which is close to the uterus. It provides excellent imaging for early pregnancy, retroverted uterus, obesity, or suspected ectop...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Vaginal, Transabdominal, and High-Resolution Ultrasounds
Understanding High-Level Ultrasound in Obstetrics: When and Why?
Regarding high-level ultrasound? Dr. Wang: Hello! I would like to ask under what circumstances a high-level ultrasound should be performed, and what diseases can be detected through it. My friend had a prenatal check-up at Cathay and found out that the baby had heart problems at ...
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, during pregnancy, we usually recommend a high-level ultrasound examination around 24 weeks to conduct a thorough assessment of the fetus. At this time, we will scan the fetus's brain, face (features), neck, heart (including major blood ve...[Read More] Understanding High-Level Ultrasound in Obstetrics: When and Why?
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Having a Baby Boy
Boy or girl? How can I increase the chances of having a boy?
Dr. Lin Manying Reply:
If conception occurs naturally, the ratio of male to female fetuses should be approximately 50-53% to 50%, with a slightly higher chance of male fetuses. However, the claims circulating about the influence of vaginal pH levels on conception rates around the time of ovulation are ...[Read More] Tips to Increase Your Chances of Having a Baby Boy
Understanding Rh Factor in Pregnancy: Key Considerations for Couples
Rh-negative & Rh-positive Dear Dr. Lu, I am blood type O negative, and my husband is blood type O positive. We plan to conceive in late November this year. I previously had a pregnancy where the fertilized egg implanted at the opening of the fallopian tube, and at that time,...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello! If a fertilized egg implants in an abnormal location (outside the uterine cavity), we refer to this as an ectopic pregnancy, which can occur in the fallopian tubes, cervix, or at the exit of the fallopian tubes. This condition typically causes bleeding, including internal ...[Read More] Understanding Rh Factor in Pregnancy: Key Considerations for Couples
Is Chemical Smell in Office Safe for My 6-Week Pregnancy?
Smelling a chemical agent similar to insecticide? Hello Dr. Lu: I am currently six weeks pregnant and would like to ask you a question. This morning, when I opened the door to enter my office, I immediately smelled a chemical odor similar to insecticide. I quickly closed the door...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello! Pregnant women should avoid exposure to toxic chemicals, but general cleaning agents are considered safe. If the exposure is limited to just smelling or minimal contact, it should not pose any significant risk. Best wishes for health from Dr. Lu Li-Cheng, Director of the D...[Read More] Is Chemical Smell in Office Safe for My 6-Week Pregnancy?
Managing Dry Throat and Appetite Issues During Pregnancy
Dry throat during pregnancy? Hello Dr. Lu: I am four months pregnant. In the early stages, I often felt dryness in my throat, which has improved now, but sometimes I still feel a bit uncomfortable with a dry throat. Are there any ways to alleviate this? Also, I frequently have a ...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello! 1. Pregnant women may experience increased gastric acid accumulation, bloating, nausea, and vomiting due to hormonal changes. It is recommended to eat small, frequent meals, consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, take walks outdoors, and consult an obstetrician for...[Read More] Managing Dry Throat and Appetite Issues During Pregnancy
Understanding Umbilical Cord Issues: Risks and Prevention Strategies
Why does the umbilical cord wrap around the neck? Are there any methods to prevent the tragedy of stillbirth? Dear Dr. Lu: Why does the fetus get the umbilical cord wrapped around its neck? Are there any methods to prevent stillbirths, such as raising the hips while lying on the ...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello! Nuchal cord is quite common and does not cause fetal death. This is often a misconception. Both the fetus and the umbilical cord float in the amniotic fluid, and it is common for the cord to wrap around the fetus's neck, hands, or feet. Many cases of unexplained still...[Read More] Understanding Umbilical Cord Issues: Risks and Prevention Strategies
Understanding the Impact of Emergency Contraceptive Pills on Pregnancy Outcomes
Emergency contraceptive pill Hello, my wife purchased emergency contraceptive pills (specifically, two doses of EllaOne) from the pharmacy, along with one anti-nausea pill. She took the first dose on the evening of August 9, after our encounter on August 8, and then took another ...
Dr. Huang Jianxun Reply:
Hello: Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones. Please read the accompanying leaflet, as it should outline the potential effects you mentioned. However, it is also reasonable to consider the perspective retained by another obstetrician you referenced. As for ...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Emergency Contraceptive Pills on Pregnancy Outcomes
Is Milk Tea Safe During Pregnancy? Expert Insights for Expecting Mothers
Regarding diet? Dr. Wang: Hello! I am currently 16 weeks pregnant. I really enjoy drinking milk tea, and I have had it about six times so far. However, I heard from my colleagues that drinking milk tea is not good for the baby, which makes me very worried. I would like to ask Dr....
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, during pregnancy, the caffeine in tea can increase the burden on the heart and kidneys of the mother and may affect fetal development. Therefore, pregnant women should reduce their intake of coffee and tea, and try to replace them with milk or...[Read More] Is Milk Tea Safe During Pregnancy? Expert Insights for Expecting Mothers
Understanding Abortion Options and Their Health Impacts
Regarding abortion? In August, I accidentally became pregnant, and I want to terminate the pregnancy. What methods are available, and how do they affect health?
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Hello, in response to your question. Current methods of abortion include surgical and medical procedures to terminate early pregnancies. According to Article 9 of the Maternal and Child Health Act, a pregnant woman may voluntarily undergo an abortion if diagnosed or proven to hav...[Read More] Understanding Abortion Options and Their Health Impacts
Can Pregnant Women Safely Get the Flu Vaccine? Impact on Fetus Explained
Can pregnant women receive the flu vaccine? Is it safe for pregnant women to receive the flu vaccine? Will it have any effects on the fetus?
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Pregnant women can receive the influenza vaccine as long as they do not have other complications or an allergy to eggs.[Read More] Can Pregnant Women Safely Get the Flu Vaccine? Impact on Fetus Explained
Impact of Cold Medications Taken During Unknowingly Early Pregnancy
The wife unknowingly took cold medicine while being pregnant? Hello, Doctor: My wife unknowingly took cold medicine while pregnant (last menstrual period on July 20, took cold medicine from August 26 to September 2) prescribed by two clinics (the names of the medications are as f...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello! 1. At 23 days post-conception, the organs have not yet formed, and the embryo is still in the blastocyst stage. Your wife is currently in this stage, and if there is any impact, it would affect the entire embryo, potentially leading to a miscarriage. If there is no impact,...[Read More] Impact of Cold Medications Taken During Unknowingly Early Pregnancy
Understanding Amniotic Fluid Testing: Common Concerns for Expecting Mothers
Amniocentesis Dr. Wang: Hello! I have received your reply, and I really appreciate your answers. I will visit your clinic when I reach 15 weeks, but before that, I have two questions that I hope you can take the time to answer for me. 1. I previously had blood tests for thalass...
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Hello, In response to your question, neural tube defects (NTDs) are a type of abnormal development of the fetal central nervous system. The neural tube is the precursor to the central nervous system, which differentiates into the brain and spinal cord during pregnancy. For vari...[Read More] Understanding Amniotic Fluid Testing: Common Concerns for Expecting Mothers
Understanding Down Syndrome Screening: What to Do Next?
Screening for Down syndrome? Dr. Wang: Hello! I have a question to ask you. I have been undergoing examinations at Cathay since the beginning of my pregnancy. On August 11, when I was exactly 12 weeks along, I had the nuchal translucency screening and blood tests done. The nuchal...
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Hello: In response to your question regarding Down syndrome screening, the current screening is performed through a blood test between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy (ideally between the 16th and 18th weeks). This test measures "α-FP" (alpha-fetoprotein) and "...[Read More] Understanding Down Syndrome Screening: What to Do Next?
Understanding Induction of Labor: Duration and Outpatient Options
Induction of labor I am 6 months pregnant and unfortunately need to undergo an abortion procedure. I am currently working and would like to know how long the induction process takes and if it is possible to avoid hospitalization.
Dr. Dai Qihan Reply:
Hello Xiaoya: According to legal regulations, abortion is not permitted for fetuses that are 24 weeks or older. Sincerely, Dr. Dai Qihan, Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology.[Read More] Understanding Induction of Labor: Duration and Outpatient Options
Impact of Cold Medications Taken During Unknowingly Pregnant Period
Taking these medications without knowing you are pregnant..? Hello Dr. Hsu, I unknowingly took cold medication prescribed by an ENT clinic while being pregnant (my last menstrual period was on March 15, and I took the medication from March 26 to March 29). I would like to know i...
Dr. Xu Junzheng Reply:
Hello: The last menstrual period was on March 15, and the general time of conception is likely after March 29, so the aforementioned medication should not have a significant impact. Thank you.[Read More] Impact of Cold Medications Taken During Unknowingly Pregnant Period
Understanding Invasive Placenta: Risks, Diagnosis, and Delivery Options
Invasive placenta Hello, I am currently at 31 weeks and 3 days of pregnancy. During my prenatal check-up, it was found that I have a condition of placenta accreta, but the doctor mentioned that it cannot be confirmed with 100% certainty yet. Is it possible for the ultrasound resu...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello! 1. Invasive placenta, according to current diagnostic techniques, is primarily assessed using ultrasound. However, due to variations in equipment resolution and physician experience, the accuracy ranges between 40-60%, so it is not definitive. It is recommended to visit a ...[Read More] Understanding Invasive Placenta: Risks, Diagnosis, and Delivery Options
Why Is My Baby Bump Smaller at 20 Weeks? Understanding Pregnancy Changes
The belly does not appear to be five months pregnant? Dear Doctor: As of today, I am 20 weeks pregnant, but I don't have a noticeable belly and my weight hasn't increased. This is my third pregnancy, and I often feel discomfort in my lower abdomen. My attending physicia...
Dr. Peng Yiguo Reply:
Generally, at 20 weeks of pregnancy, the fundus of the uterus is approximately at the level of the navel. Around 16 weeks, a slight protrusion of the lower abdomen may be observed, but the appearance can be influenced by body shape and the number of fetuses. With the widespread u...[Read More] Why Is My Baby Bump Smaller at 20 Weeks? Understanding Pregnancy Changes
Is Chorionic Villus Sampling Safe for Early Pregnancy DNA Testing?
Chorion If I am approximately 8 weeks pregnant and want to undergo DNA testing, will the process of "chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis" be extremely dangerous? Could it cause harm to the mother and fetus? Thank you!
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, during pregnancy, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis can be used to further examine the chromosomal composition and specific gene DNA of the fetus. When performed at the appropriate gestational weeks—amniocentesis around 9 weeks...[Read More] Is Chorionic Villus Sampling Safe for Early Pregnancy DNA Testing?
Urgent Concerns: Understanding Blood Clots During Early Pregnancy
Emergency! Emergency! Emergency! Blood clot? Hello Dr. Lu, I am about one month pregnant. This morning, I had a nightmare and became very emotional, which caused me to experience severe abdominal pain, making me fear a miscarriage. I went to the emergency room for an ultrasound,...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello! The black shadow next to the embryo may be an imaging artifact and may not actually exist, so there is no need to worry too much. If it is a blood clot, it will gradually dissipate and be absorbed by the body, which will not affect the fetus. If you still have concerns, yo...[Read More] Urgent Concerns: Understanding Blood Clots During Early Pregnancy