Understanding Placental Calcification: What It Means for Your Pregnancy
What is placental calcification? I am currently 37 weeks pregnant and recently went to the hospital for a prenatal check-up. The doctor mentioned that my placenta has calcified, and my baby is no longer able to absorb a lot of nutrients, which has caused me great concern. Doctor,...
Dr. Liang Yinpan Reply:
Dear Ms. Muny, During pregnancy, as time progresses, there is a gradual accumulation of calcium in the connective tissue of the placenta, leading to the phenomenon of placental calcification. The degree of placental calcification can indirectly reflect the maturity of the fetus,...[Read More] Understanding Placental Calcification: What It Means for Your Pregnancy
Understanding Fetal Pole: What It Is and When It Appears in Pregnancy
The fetal pole is the first visible sign of a developing embryo during early pregnancy, typically observed via ultrasound. It appears as a thickening along the edge of the gestational sac Hello, doctor: I recently had an ultrasound for prenatal check-up, and the doctor mentioned ...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
The fetal pole is a part of the fetus itself. In early pregnancy, an ultrasound can reveal a sac-like structure called the gestational sac. Inside it contains amniotic fluid and the fetus, with the fetal portion referred to as the fetal pole. The Chinese term can be roughly trans...[Read More] Understanding Fetal Pole: What It Is and When It Appears in Pregnancy
Postpartum Back Pain: Is It Related to Anesthesia?
Postpartum lower back pain? Hello Dr. Lin: I have an aunt who, four to five years ago, experienced pregnancy and underwent a spinal anesthesia. Since then, she has been experiencing persistent lower back pain on both sides of her spine. She has been undergoing rehabilitation for ...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
Generally, spinal anesthesia (also known as regional anesthesia) is commonly used in procedures such as appendectomy, orthopedic surgeries, and cesarean sections. However, it is often reported that patients experience lower back discomfort after cesarean delivery. In fact, during...[Read More] Postpartum Back Pain: Is It Related to Anesthesia?
How Long After Taking Nail Fungus Medication Should You Wait to Get Pregnant?
How long should one wait to conceive after taking medication for nail fungus? Dear Dr. Jan, My husband took medication for nail fungus from early September to late December last year for three months. (I am not sure of the exact name of the medication, but I know that he had to ...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
1. The most commonly used medication for treating nail fungus is Itraconazole (SPORANOX). After discontinuation of the medication, it can remain in the skin for about four weeks, but it can persist in the nail keratin for up to six months. Therefore, for safety reasons, a duratio...[Read More] How Long After Taking Nail Fungus Medication Should You Wait to Get Pregnant?
Chlamydia Infection and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Infection with Mycoplasma? Hello, Dr. Wei. I apologize for the intrusion and appreciate your understanding. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. I want to become pregnant, but I have previously been infected with Chlamydia, and it has recurred after treatment. What sh...
Dr. Wei Fumao Reply:
1.3. Find a medical center to test for infections and receive treatment (which can be done through blood tests or cervical cultures). 2. Late pregnancy infections have a significant impact on newborns, increasing the risk of premature rupture of membranes, preterm birth, and maki...[Read More] Chlamydia Infection and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Impact of Medications on Fetal Development: Concerns and Symptoms
Effects of Medications on the Fetus I went to Taipei Mackay Memorial Hospital for an examination on January 9th, and the doctor informed me that I am 6 weeks pregnant. However, prior to knowing about the pregnancy, I took some over-the-counter cold capsules, Tylenol, and antacids...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
1. Most of these medications do not have significant evidence of teratogenic effects at standard therapeutic doses, so the likelihood of fetal malformations does not significantly increase. 2. Nausea and vomiting symptoms should not be related to the fetal sex; however, if vomiti...[Read More] Impact of Medications on Fetal Development: Concerns and Symptoms
Understanding RU-486: Uses, Effects, and Risks in Abortion Care
RU-486, also known as RU-486, also known as mifepristone, is an abortion medication. It is typically used within the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. After taking it, patients may experience symptoms such as cramping and bleeding as the body expels the pregnancy. The primary differ...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
1. RU-486 is an abortion pill, that is correct. 2. It is used within seven weeks of pregnancy. 3. It causes bleeding and miscarriage. 4. Compared to other methods, it does not require surgery. 5. Sometimes, there may be incomplete expulsion of the fetus or heavy bleeding, so it m...[Read More] Understanding RU-486: Uses, Effects, and Risks in Abortion Care
Understanding Rh Factor: What Rh-Negative Pregnant Women Should Know
Rh negative I always thought I was Rh positive, and my blood donation card also indicates Rh positive. However, during my recent prenatal check-up, I was found to be Rh negative. General literature states that Rh negative individuals should receive an injection of Rh immunoglobul...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Rh-negative pregnant women may develop antibodies against Rh-positive red blood cells during their first pregnancy or delivery if the fetus is Rh-positive. This can lead to the rejection of the fetus during a subsequent pregnancy, resulting in hemolytic disease of the newborn and...[Read More] Understanding Rh Factor: What Rh-Negative Pregnant Women Should Know
Is X-Ray Exposure Safe for My Unborn Baby? Understanding Risks
Is X-ray exposure dangerous to the fetus? Dear Dr. Cheng: I recently discovered that I am pregnant. After examination, it was confirmed that the fetus is five weeks old and has implanted normally in the uterus. However, I am concerned because, in the month prior to my pregnancy, ...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
As long as a lead apron is worn during an X-ray, it will block radiation and have no effect on the fetus.[Read More] Is X-Ray Exposure Safe for My Unborn Baby? Understanding Risks
Impact of X-rays on Pregnant Women and Fetal Development Concerns
X-ray On December 31, my child suffered an accidental injury and was taken to Hsinchu Provincial Hospital. The doctor performed an X-ray on my child while I was present. At that time, I had concerns about standing nearby because I was worried that I might be pregnant. However, th...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Fetuses are more susceptible to the effects of X-rays during the 6 to 8 weeks of pregnancy. It is important to consider the radiation dose; therefore, you should go to the hospital to check the size of the fetus in order to estimate the gestational age at the time of the X-ray ex...[Read More] Impact of X-rays on Pregnant Women and Fetal Development Concerns
Managing Gestational Diabetes: Concerns, Prevention, and Impact on Your Baby
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) Hello Doctor, my wife is currently 27 weeks pregnant. Recently, her diabetes screening result was 160, which is above the standard value of 140. We have now conducted a second, more accurate test and are awaiting the results. We are both very c...
Dr. Wei Fumao Reply:
If the test results are too high, please consult a high-risk pregnancy specialist at a medical center, as there may be a risk of macrosomia. Dietary control and exercise should be implemented; if improvements are not observed, medication or early hospitalization for treatment may...[Read More] Managing Gestational Diabetes: Concerns, Prevention, and Impact on Your Baby
Can Pregnant Women Safely Experience Orgasm in Late Pregnancy?
Wife's sexual satisfaction Hello, doctor. My wife is nearly seven months pregnant, and recently she has been wanting to experience orgasm. We understand that after six months of pregnancy, sexual intercourse should be avoided to prevent premature labor and other risks. Howev...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Sexual intercourse and orgasm can still occur in the later stages of pregnancy, provided there are no symptoms such as uterine contractions or bleeding. Positions should be chosen that do not put pressure on the fetus and are not overly vigorous. Generally, orgasms can cause uter...[Read More] Can Pregnant Women Safely Experience Orgasm in Late Pregnancy?
Does Sleeping on Your Side Affect Fetal Growth During Pregnancy?
Does sleeping on the side affect the fetus? Doctor, I am currently 26 weeks pregnant. If I have a habit of sleeping on my side at night, will it affect the growth of the fetus?
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Sleeping on the side during pregnancy does not affect the fetus, and sleeping on the left side is preferable. If you have further questions, please visit an obstetrics and gynecology clinic.[Read More] Does Sleeping on Your Side Affect Fetal Growth During Pregnancy?
Impact of Chickenpox on Pregnant Women and Their Babies
Chickenpox I am currently three months pregnant, but my husband recently developed chickenpox. I am concerned about the potential effects on me and the fetus.
Dr. Wang Jionglang Reply:
Ms. Fang, the most important thing for you right now is to avoid being infected by your husband, as pregnant women in the early stages of pregnancy have a significantly higher risk of transmitting the varicella virus to the fetus. If you can avoid being infected by your husband, ...[Read More] Impact of Chickenpox on Pregnant Women and Their Babies
Foods That May Affect Pregnancy: What Women Should Know
Foods that affect pregnancy? Hello: Alcohol, coffee, and tea, when consumed excessively during pregnancy, may lead to the risk of congenital disabilities. Therefore, I would like to ask: For women who wish to conceive, will consuming spicy hot pot and ginger affect pregnancy? Wil...
Dr. Wu Zongcheng Reply:
Response: Ms. Yuan, you mentioned that it will not cause congenital malformations. (1) Congenital malformations can generally be classified into chromosomal abnormalities and genetic factors (single-gene and multi-gene disorders). (2) Stimulants such as alcohol, coffee, and tea h...[Read More] Foods That May Affect Pregnancy: What Women Should Know
Understanding Rash During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Red rash on the body? I am currently about 18 weeks pregnant and will be visiting the United States for over a month in early December with my husband. We are staying in an older apartment with carpeting. A few days after arriving, I developed some red, itchy rashes on my calves ...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Viral or drug toxicity can often lead to teratogenic effects, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy. However, mosquito bites are unlikely to affect the fetus. If symptoms do not improve within 3 to 5 days, please consult a physician.[Read More] Understanding Rash During Pregnancy: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Preterm Labor: Should You Get Extra Ultrasounds During Pregnancy?
Obstetrics and Gynecology What is [premenstrual syndrome]? I regularly have prenatal check-ups at National Taiwan University Hospital, but I only had an ultrasound when I was five months pregnant. I heard that large hospitals typically perform ultrasounds twice during pregnancy (...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
Preeclampsia commonly occurs in the second or third trimester of pregnancy and is a condition closely related to gestation, with potential causes linked to the immune system. For the mother, symptoms may vary in severity and can include elevated blood pressure, edema, headaches, ...[Read More] Understanding Preterm Labor: Should You Get Extra Ultrasounds During Pregnancy?
Impact of Screen Time on Fetal Health and Breastfeeding with Hepatitis B
Obstetrics and Gynecology I am a homemaker and currently 26 weeks pregnant. I spend about six hours a day watching television at home. Will this affect the health of my fetus? Additionally, is it normal for my vision to become worse (more blurry) during this time? Lastly, I am a ...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
1. At 26 weeks of pregnancy, the fetal limbs and organs have entered the developmental stage. It is best to minimize exposure to radiation, and using a screen filter may be beneficial. 2. If there is blurred vision, it is important to pay special attention to symptoms such as h...[Read More] Impact of Screen Time on Fetal Health and Breastfeeding with Hepatitis B
Does the Flu Vaccine Increase the Risk of Birth Defects?
Does the flu vaccine cause fetal malformations? Hello, my wife had a check-up at the obstetrics and gynecology department today and found out that she is approximately 10 days pregnant. However, she received half doses of the influenza vaccine one month ago and two days ago (the ...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Influenza has not been proven to have teratogenic effects. The influenza vaccine is considered an inactivated preparation and is not expected to affect the fetus. However, please refer to the vaccine's accompanying package insert for detailed information.[Read More] Does the Flu Vaccine Increase the Risk of Birth Defects?
Understanding Unexplained Miscarriages: Causes and Next Steps
Unexplained miscarriage I have been married for two years and have experienced two pregnancies, both of which ended in miscarriage at around 2.5 to 3 months, leading to the decision to undergo a therapeutic abortion (the first pregnancy in June 1999 and the second in June 2000). ...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Most miscarried fetuses have inherent issues, and in such cases, progesterone is ineffective. Couples with a history of two miscarriages may undergo blood chromosomal testing, which can reveal that 2%-10% of them have chromosomal abnormalities. If the uterine lining is irregular,...[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Miscarriages: Causes and Next Steps