Is Amniocentesis Necessary for My Third Pregnancy?
Is amniocentesis necessary? My first child is a girl with cerebral palsy and multiple disabilities. Since neither side of the family has a history of this hereditary condition, we took her to Veterans General Hospital and National Taiwan University for examinations, but no cause ...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Currently, amniocentesis is primarily used to check for chromosomal issues in the fetus. A normal chromosomal result from the amniotic fluid analysis in a third pregnancy does not guarantee that there is no possibility of cerebral palsy. However, since you are approaching the age...[Read More] Is Amniocentesis Necessary for My Third Pregnancy?
Antibiotics and Pregnancy: Safety Concerns and Vaginal Health
Antibiotics and Pregnancy Hello Dr. Lin: On November 1st, I noticed a lot of yellow vaginal discharge, and the doctor prescribed a vaginal suppository (TALSUTIN VAG) to be taken at bedtime, which helped a bit. On November 15th, the doctor prescribed an antibiotic (TINIDAZOLE 500M...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
The normal vaginal pH ranges from approximately 4.0 to 4.9, which indicates a balanced state of the normal flora in the vagina, particularly lactobacilli. If the pH level rises due to factors such as individual constitution, fatigue, or infection, it can promote the growth of ana...[Read More] Antibiotics and Pregnancy: Safety Concerns and Vaginal Health
Impact of Medications and X-rays on Fetal Development: Expert Insights
Effects of Medications and X-rays on the Fetus Dear Dr. Wang, I discovered that I am nearly two months pregnant. About a month ago, I took over-the-counter medication for a cold without knowing I was pregnant. Additionally, I accompanied my mother for an X-ray, during which the ...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
The medication you took and the X-ray exposure are not likely to significantly increase the risk of fetal malformations. However, please consult your physician for a thorough examination of the fetus.[Read More] Impact of Medications and X-rays on Fetal Development: Expert Insights
Is It Safe to Have Sex During Pregnancy? Effects on Mother and Baby
Is it safe to engage in sexual intercourse during pregnancy? During pregnancy, sexual intercourse is generally considered safe for most women, provided there are no complications or specific medical concerns. Engaging in sexual activity does not typically harm the mother or the f...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Sexual activity during pregnancy is not prohibited, and there is no evidence to suggest that it increases the risk of fetal abnormalities! BUT BE GENTLE![Read More] Is It Safe to Have Sex During Pregnancy? Effects on Mother and Baby
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During Pregnancy: Symptoms and Treatment
Wrist tunnel syndrome I am 33 weeks pregnant and experiencing swelling and pain in my finger joints, making it difficult to bend them. The discomfort has extended to my arms, and it is most severe upon waking. Could this be carpal tunnel syndrome? Will it affect my fetus? Will th...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
You indeed have carpal tunnel syndrome, which will not affect the fetus. Soaking your wrists in warm water can help alleviate the symptoms, and it typically resolves within about 2-3 weeks postpartum.[Read More] Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome During Pregnancy: Symptoms and Treatment
Can You Get Pregnant Without Intercourse? Common Concerns Explained
Will having sex like this lead to pregnancy? Hello, doctor! I have a few questions, and I would appreciate your help in answering them. Thank you! Q1: Since I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend, but the penis did not penetrate the vagina and her hymen did not rupture, we ...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
1. Yes. Sperm can swim, and it is no longer news that a virgin can become pregnant. 2. No, but it is important to confirm that it is during the menstrual period, as there can also be light bleeding during ovulation. 3. You can purchase a pregnancy test at a pharmacy to find o...[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant Without Intercourse? Common Concerns Explained
Am I Ovulating? Understanding Fertility After a Miscarriage
Is there ovulation? I have one child who is almost two years old. On May 20th of this year, I took a lot of medication due to feeling unwell and was concerned about its effects on a fetus, so I underwent an abortion. Since then, I have been closely monitoring my physiological cha...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Surgical abortion does not cause anovulatory infertility; however, complications such as adhesions in the fallopian tubes may occur postoperatively. If the hospital where you undergo the abortion maintains proper sterile techniques, you can feel reassured. Additionally, the two-y...[Read More] Am I Ovulating? Understanding Fertility After a Miscarriage
Can Hepatitis B Be Passed to the Baby During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy and Hepatitis B Is it possible for a hepatitis B carrier to transmit the virus to the next generation during pregnancy?
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Yes, but immunoglobulin can be administered within 24 hours after the birth of the fetus for prevention.[Read More] Can Hepatitis B Be Passed to the Baby During Pregnancy?
Understanding Neural Tube Defects: Causes and Essential Tests for Expecting Mothers
Neural tube At 16 weeks of pregnancy, a blood test was conducted to check for gestational diabetes. During a follow-up visit at 18 weeks, the doctor informed that the incidence of gestational diabetes is low, but there is a potential risk of the fetus having neural tube defects. ...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Down syndrome screening has a higher rate of neural tube defects, which can generally be assessed via ultrasound around 20 weeks of gestation, with a relatively high detection rate. The causes of neural tube defects are unknown and are more prevalent in certain populations. Addit...[Read More] Understanding Neural Tube Defects: Causes and Essential Tests for Expecting Mothers
Can Ultrasound Clearly Show Baby's Features at 33 Weeks?
Can ultrasound clearly visualize the baby's facial features? Hello, I am currently 33 weeks pregnant. During the ultrasound, the baby's eyes were not clearly visible. Is this normal? Generally, facial features can be seen around 5 to 6 months, so why can't I see my...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Generally, at 20 weeks, the baby's facial features can be seen, but the fetus must be in the right position for the images to be captured.[Read More] Can Ultrasound Clearly Show Baby's Features at 33 Weeks?
Understanding Caffeine and Hydration During Pregnancy: Myths and Facts
Does caffeine affect the fetus? Can stretch marks be avoided? How can this be done? Why do doctors recommend that I drink at least six large cups of water a day during pregnancy? What happens if I don't? Can I substitute with other beverages? Will this lead to decreased amni...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
1. Drinking more fresh milk is better. 2. Do not consume excessive amounts of tea and coffee (three to four cups a day is too much). 3. Folk sayings are not always reliable. 4. High-quality cosmetics should not cause issues; however, please check if they contain excessive amounts...[Read More] Understanding Caffeine and Hydration During Pregnancy: Myths and Facts
Managing Cold Symptoms During Pregnancy: Impact on Your Baby
Obstetrics and Gynecology Hello, doctor; I am a 24-week pregnant woman. A month ago, I had cold symptoms, but they have not improved until now. I have been coughing continuously, and I also have phlegm and nasal discharge, which is very thick. Sometimes I experience nasal congest...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Common colds do not affect the fetus; however, if there is a fever, it can be a concern. It is important to rest and drink plenty of warm fluids. If symptoms such as fever or sore throat occur, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.[Read More] Managing Cold Symptoms During Pregnancy: Impact on Your Baby
Understanding Placenta Previa: Should We Opt for Early Delivery?
Placenta previa My wife has been diagnosed with placenta previa by her obstetrician, who has recommended a cesarean section. We are currently at 36 weeks, but the fetus weighs only 2300g. The doctor advised that we should definitely have the cesarean at 38 weeks to avoid the risk...
Dr. Li Guanghan Reply:
Placenta previa occurs when the placenta implants in an abnormal position, leading to reduced nutrient supply to the fetus. By 36 weeks, a fetus may weigh approximately 2300 grams, which is about 400 grams less than expected. If the due date is accurate, this condition is classif...[Read More] Understanding Placenta Previa: Should We Opt for Early Delivery?
Addressing Hormonal Deficiency in Pregnant Women: Key Concerns and Solutions
Inquire about issues related to insufficient hormone secretion in pregnant women? Dear Sir/Madam, My daughter is 32 years old and has a two-year-old son. She is currently four months pregnant. This month, during her prenatal check-up, blood tests revealed that her hormone levels...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
With the advancements in ultrasound technology and various prenatal examinations, it is now rare to draw hormones from pregnant women, unless it is during the early stages of pregnancy when a heartbeat is not yet visible, in which case progesterone may be tested as a reference fo...[Read More] Addressing Hormonal Deficiency in Pregnant Women: Key Concerns and Solutions
Can Pregnant Women Contract Enterovirus from Infected Children?
Enterovirus If the wife is about to give birth and there is a child at home infected with enterovirus, will she be at risk of contracting the virus and potentially transmitting it to the fetus?
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
Most cases of enterovirus occur in children, but pregnant women, who have weaker immune systems, also need to be particularly cautious. It is advisable to maintain isolation as much as possible and to frequently wash hands with soap. Hands should be washed before eating anything ...[Read More] Can Pregnant Women Contract Enterovirus from Infected Children?
Can I Get Pregnant After a Flu Vaccine? Answers for Women’s Health
Flu vaccine 1. If I received a flu vaccine at a health center, can I get pregnant now? If not, how long should I wait before it is safe to conceive? If I accidentally become pregnant after receiving the vaccine, what effects could it have on the fetus? 2. During my first pregna...
Dr. Wu Zongcheng Reply:
(1) The flu vaccine has minimal effects on pregnant women; common cold viruses do not cause fetal malformations. However, the rubella virus can lead to fetal abnormalities, so it is recommended to avoid pregnancy for three months after receiving the rubella vaccine. (2) Ovulation...[Read More] Can I Get Pregnant After a Flu Vaccine? Answers for Women’s Health
Can Dogs Affect Your Pregnancy? Key Insights for Expecting Mothers
Can dogs affect the fetus? Dear Doctor, I am currently living in the United States and am 30 weeks pregnant. I have a small indoor dog. Will this affect my fetus? I love animals and often sleep and play with my dog, but my doctor said it's fine as long as I wash my hands. I...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
1. Being too close to puppies can increase the risk of parasitic infections, as puppies often carry many parasites. It is essential to wash your hands frequently and it is best not to sleep with the puppy. 2. A normal weight gain during pregnancy is about 12 kilograms (until full...[Read More] Can Dogs Affect Your Pregnancy? Key Insights for Expecting Mothers
Understanding High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy: Causes and Management
Pregnancy-induced hypertension Why does blood pressure increase during pregnancy? How can it be avoided or controlled?
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
Gestational hypertension accounts for 7% of all pregnancies. The main causes include: 1. Abnormal development of placental blood vessels 2. Abnormal immune response in the mother 3. Abnormal hormone metabolism 4. Family history of hypertension 5. Previous gestational hypertension...[Read More] Understanding High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy: Causes and Management
Thyroid Health During Pregnancy: Impacts of T4 Levels and Past Conditions
Thyroid gland I am 4 months pregnant and had a blood test for thyroid hormones T4 and TSH. The results were T4 = 16.4 (normal range = 4.2–12.5), and TSH was within the normal range. I have a history of pheochromocytoma and am concerned about any potential effects on the fetus and...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
During pregnancy, thyroid function may slightly increase (T4 level at 16.4). It is advisable to consult a specialist in thyroid disorders.[Read More] Thyroid Health During Pregnancy: Impacts of T4 Levels and Past Conditions
Understanding Bleeding During Pregnancy: Symptoms and Concerns
Bleeding during pregnancy I am currently 30 weeks pregnant and occasionally feel tightness in my lower abdomen, with my belly feeling hard. Sometimes, fetal movements are uncomfortable or even painful. Four days ago, I noticed dark red bleeding, and it has continued despite takin...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
Occasional tightening in the lower abdomen is likely a natural contraction, but if there are regular contractions accompanied by pain, medical attention should be sought immediately. At 30 weeks of pregnancy, any bleeding should prompt an evaluation to rule out the possibility of...[Read More] Understanding Bleeding During Pregnancy: Symptoms and Concerns