Understanding Fetal Movement, Contractions, and Ultrasound Safety During Pregnancy
Fetal movement? Uterine contractions? Ultrasound? Hello Dr. Lu, I am currently about 18 to 19 weeks pregnant with my first child. Is it normal not to feel any fetal movement at this stage? A few days ago, after working the night shift, I suddenly experienced tight and painful s...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
In a first pregnancy, it is common to feel fetal movement around the 20th to 21st week, which is typically around five months. Therefore, not feeling fetal movement at this stage is normal. The tight and painful sensation in the lower abdomen is indeed due to uterine contractions...[Read More] Understanding Fetal Movement, Contractions, and Ultrasound Safety During Pregnancy
Can X-rays During Early Pregnancy Cause Birth Defects?
X-ray??? Hello Dr. Wang, I would like to ask the following question: My last menstrual period started on December 1, 2001, and I purchased a home pregnancy test on January 7, which indicated that I am pregnant. However, on December 19, I participated in a health check at work and...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
I do not believe that the radiation from a chest X-ray can cause congenital abnormalities. Further examination is not possible; we will just need to monitor the situation.[Read More] Can X-rays During Early Pregnancy Cause Birth Defects?
Understanding Ultrasound and Amniocentesis in High-Risk Pregnancies
Ultrasound and Amniocentesis Hello Doctor! I am currently 16 weeks pregnant and had ultrasounds at 6 weeks and 12 weeks. My daily life is regular, but after the third ultrasound, the fetus appears to be measuring at 14 weeks. Is there any concern regarding this? Should I increase...
Dr. Wu Zongcheng Reply:
Tainan Hospital of the Department of Health, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Wu Zongcheng's response: (1) Ultrasound examinations are relatively safe for the fetus; although ultrasound machines do emit a small amount of radiation, it is not higher than that from a television ...[Read More] Understanding Ultrasound and Amniocentesis in High-Risk Pregnancies
Common Causes of Cervical Inflammation: Understanding Your Diagnosis
"Typically, what causes inflammation of the cervix?" I have three children and last month I underwent a Pap smear at the obstetrics and gynecology department. Today, the hospital called to inform me that there is inflammation in my cervix and advised me to come in for m...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
Possible causes of cervical inflammation include 1. infection, 2. cervical ectropion, 3. healing period after surgery, 4. menopausal aging, and 5. receiving radiation therapy. Among these, 2, 3, and 4 are not related to cervical cancer. Based on your situation, being 31 years old...[Read More] Common Causes of Cervical Inflammation: Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: When to Seek Further Evaluation
I'm here Good day: My last menstrual period was on May 4th. I had very little bleeding in June (there were a few days with some brown discharge). On July 12th, I was prescribed medication to induce menstruation by my gynecologist, but I could only take it for two days due to...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
On July 23, a menstrual induction injection was administered, and menstruation is expected to occur between the evening of July 25 and July 27. The menstruation that started on July 24 may be influenced by previous oral medication or insufficient dosage of the injection. If there...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Menstrual Cycles: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Can SLE and Steroid Use in Fathers Affect Baby's Health?
Congenital anomaly Hello, I would like to ask if a man with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) who has been taking steroids for three and a half years, at a dosage of 1-2 pills daily, could cause his wife to give birth to a child with congenital abnormalities. Additionally, if th...
Dr. Zhan Deqin Reply:
1. No, pregnant women may sometimes need to use steroids. 2. No, the fetus is more susceptible to effects during the first twelve weeks after conception, and the radiation from one or two X-rays is actually quite low. Additionally, cold medications are not toxic enough to cause d...[Read More] Can SLE and Steroid Use in Fathers Affect Baby's Health?
Managing Ovarian Cysts After Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know
Post-mastectomy sequelae Hello! I am a stage III breast cancer patient with multiple occurrences. I had surgery last year and completed chemotherapy and radiation therapy. I am currently taking hormone therapy. During a gynecological examination last month, a doctor found a cyst ...
Dr. Xu Junzheng Reply:
Breast cancer can indeed metastasize to the ovaries, but if it is metastatic, surgical removal would be of no benefit. Therefore, severing the fallopian tubes would be even less necessary. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Ovarian Cysts After Breast Cancer: What You Need to Know
Effects of X-Ray Exposure Near Ovaries: Myths and Facts
If an X-ray is taken near the ovaries, it may expose the ovarian tissue to radiation. While the amount of radiation from a standard X-ray is generally low and considered safe, repeated exposure or higher doses can potentially have adverse effects on reproductive health. It is imp...
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
It is a well-recognized fact that exposure to X-rays in the early stages of pregnancy can cause fetal malformations if the pelvic area is irradiated. However, if only the ovaries are exposed to standard X-ray radiation and not the fertilized egg, it should not pose significant ri...[Read More] Effects of X-Ray Exposure Near Ovaries: Myths and Facts
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
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
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
Effective Treatment Options for Stage II Endometrial Cancer in an 81-Year-Old
My mother has been diagnosed with endometrial cancer. What would be the most appropriate treatment? My mother is 81 years old and has been experiencing intermittent abdominal pain for about four years, along with irregular bowel movements. She has seen various gastroenterologists...
Dr. Wang Hanzhou Reply:
An 81-year-old woman should carefully discuss with her attending physician (a gynecologic oncologist) whether she can tolerate surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.[Read More] Effective Treatment Options for Stage II Endometrial Cancer in an 81-Year-Old
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Impact on Fertility and Conception
Irregular menstrual cycle? My menstrual period comes every two months; previously, it was every three months. Does this have any implications, and does it mean I might have a harder time getting pregnant? Thank you!
Dr. Lin Zhaopei Reply:
Theoretically, a menstrual cycle ranging from 21 to 45 days is necessary for ovulation to occur, which increases the chances of conception. For a 17-year-old female with menstrual periods occurring every two to three months, possible reasons include: 1. Excessive academic pressur...[Read More] Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Impact on Fertility and Conception