Thalassemia, Obstetrics and Gynecology FAQ

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Managing Pregnancy: B6 Supplements, Anemia, and Genetic Testing Concerns

Pregnancy-related issues? If you are experiencing severe morning sickness and your doctor has prescribed vitamin B6, it is generally safe to take it alongside a prenatal multivitamin that also contains B6, as long as you stay within the recommended daily allowance. However, it&#x...


Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, you can eat together. Mediterranean anemia is hereditary; if your husband does not have it, there is no problem. For iron deficiency anemia, iron supplements will suffice. Genetic testing is used to check if the fetus has any issues. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Managing Pregnancy: B6 Supplements, Anemia, and Genetic Testing Concerns


Thyroid Issues During Pregnancy: When to Seek Further Testing?

Thyroid issues? Two years ago, during my pregnancy, I had a thyroid report showing TSH < 0.005 and T4 1.570, which were within the normal range. At that time, my obstetrician mentioned that it might be related to the pregnancy. Should I have any special examinations for this? ...


Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, you can consult an endocrinologist regarding thyroid issues. An MCV less than 80 may indicate thalassemia trait; as long as your husband is normal, there is no need to worry. Wishing you good health!

[Read More] Thyroid Issues During Pregnancy: When to Seek Further Testing?


Can Women with Ovarian Cysts Safely Consume Red Date Extract?

Is it safe to consume red date extract if I have ovarian cysts? Dear Director Huang, I have been suffering from iron deficiency anemia for a long time, with hemoglobin levels ranging from approximately 8.5 to 9 based on my lab reports. In the past two years, I was also informed ...


Dr. Huang Yuande Reply:
If the ovarian chocolate cyst is only 2 centimeters, special treatment is generally not necessary. The red date extract you consume, as long as it's not in excessive amounts, typically won't have any adverse effects.

[Read More] Can Women with Ovarian Cysts Safely Consume Red Date Extract?


Understanding Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding: Causes and Next Steps

Menorrhagia Hello Dr. Chen: Since March, my menstrual periods have lasted over two weeks. I later went for an examination and was found to have uterine polyps, which I had surgically treated in May. However, starting in September, I had two menstrual cycles, and the second one di...


Dr. Chen Zhiyu Reply:
Regarding your concerns, here is the response: If there has been a history of endometrial polyp removal via hysteroscopic surgery and you are experiencing abnormal bleeding again, which has been confirmed by hysteroscopy as not being a recurrence, then the abnormal menstrual blee...

[Read More] Understanding Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding: Causes and Next Steps


Can Women with Thalassemia Have Healthy Pregnancies?

Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello! I have a special condition of severe thalassemia, both alpha and beta, with hemoglobin levels around 8-7. I have received blood transfusions. My husband is normal, but the hematologist has told me that I cannot get pregnant ...


Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, if your husband is healthy, there shouldn't be any issues with your child, and you should be able to conceive. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Can Women with Thalassemia Have Healthy Pregnancies?


Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Implications for Expecting Parents

Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the results of my pregnancy check-up with my husband. We have both been confirmed to have thalassemia, specifically the same alpha type. We also underwent amniocentesis for our child, and the...


Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, please consult with your attending hospital. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Implications for Expecting Parents


Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: What Does a Positive Test Mean?

Positive? If my husband tested positive for Mediterranean anemia, does that mean he does not have Mediterranean anemia?


Dr. Huang Yuande Reply:
The initial screening for thalassemia is based on a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of less than 80 fL. However, further blood tests are necessary to confirm whether it is indeed thalassemia.

[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: What Does a Positive Test Mean?


Understanding Menstrual Irregularities in Mediterranean Anemia Patients

Mediterranean Anemia - Menstrual Issues Hello doctor, my menstrual cycle used to be regular every month, lasting 3 to 8 days. However, in the past two years, my periods have become infrequent and end quickly. What could be the cause of this? Is it related to my thalassemia? What ...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong Reply:
Previously, my menstrual cycle was regular every month, lasting 3-8 days. However, in the past two years, my periods have become infrequent and very short. What could be the cause? Answer: Blood tests and ultrasound examinations are needed. Is this related to my thalassemia? Answ...

[Read More] Understanding Menstrual Irregularities in Mediterranean Anemia Patients


Managing Iron Deficiency and Mediterranean Anemia During Pregnancy

Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello Doctor, I am currently eight weeks pregnant, but my blood test results indicate that I have iron deficiency anemia and a suspicion of thalassemia. My partner also underwent blood testing, and I will find out on April 1 during...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong Reply:
I am currently eight weeks pregnant, but my blood test results indicate that I have iron deficiency anemia and possibly thalassemia. My partner also underwent a blood test, and I will find out on April 1 during my prenatal check-up whether he carries the thalassemia gene. Right n...

[Read More] Managing Iron Deficiency and Mediterranean Anemia During Pregnancy


Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Myths, Facts, and Symptoms

Mediterranean anemia (also known as thalassemia) Hello Doctor, I previously experienced two miscarriages. Both my partner and I have undergone chromosomal and immune testing, and the results were normal. I found information online suggesting that thalassemia is caused by chromoso...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin Reply:
Hello, the questioner: Thalassemia is a genetic issue that requires genetic testing for confirmation. For anemia, a blood test to check hemoglobin levels is necessary for diagnosis. Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr. Zhang.

[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Myths, Facts, and Symptoms


Understanding the Risks of Mirena IUD and Birth Control for Women

Regarding the Mirena IUD? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you some more questions. I found that using contraceptive pills or the Mirena IUD can increase the risk of blood clots. I have mild thalassemia and I used to smoke, but I quit three years ago. Is it safe for me to use t...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong Reply:
The use of contraceptive pills or the Mirena IUD carries a risk of thrombosis. I would like to ask: 1. I have mild thalassemia and have previously smoked, but I quit three years ago. Is it safe for me to use these methods? Answer: Yes, it is safe to use. 2. Is it true that women ...

[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Mirena IUD and Birth Control for Women


Can Uterine Fibroids Be Removed During Cesarean Section?

Pregnancy issues Hello, doctor. I would like to ask a question. I am currently 12 weeks pregnant and have a uterine fibroid approximately 8 centimeters in size, along with thalassemia. During delivery, if I undergo a cesarean section, can the fibroid be removed at the same time? ...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong Reply:
I am currently 12 weeks pregnant and have a uterine fibroid approximately 8 centimeters in size, along with Mediterranean anemia. I would like to know if it is possible to remove the fibroid during a cesarean section, or if there would be any complications? Answer: Generally, fib...

[Read More] Can Uterine Fibroids Be Removed During Cesarean Section?


Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: When to Consider Surgery and Iron Supplements

Heavy menstrual bleeding? I have heavy menstrual bleeding, sometimes requiring a change every hour, and it can last up to 10 days. Recently, I have experienced irregular periods and have been diagnosed with thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia. I also have a fibroid approximate...


Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, your fibroid is not large. It is recommended to first manage it with medication, and only consider surgery if it proves ineffective. You can take iron supplements or folic acid during your menstrual period. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: When to Consider Surgery and Iron Supplements


Managing Post-Medication Abortion Recovery: Key Considerations

Medication-induced abortion, postpartum care, and conditions? I received my first dose on June 15 and took a suppository on the 17th. A few minutes after the suppository, I started experiencing abdominal pain and had to go to the bathroom about six times with diarrhea. I began to...


Dr. Zhang Kunmin Reply:
Hello, the patient should return for a follow-up appointment 36 to 48 hours after taking the abortion medication. After taking the prostaglandin medication during the follow-up, the patient can go home. If there are any discomforts, hospitalization for observation may be necessar...

[Read More] Managing Post-Medication Abortion Recovery: Key Considerations


Can Women with Endometriosis Receive the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?

Can a chocolate cyst patient receive the cervical cancer vaccine? Hello, doctor. I am 32 years old and have thalassemia, as does my spouse. Two to three years ago, I underwent laparoscopic surgery for a chocolate cyst on one side. After receiving three doses of Lupron, I attempte...


Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, the medications for endometriosis and those used in the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process can have opposing effects. Chocolate cysts can recur, measuring 4-5 cm; if there are no symptoms, observation is sufficient. Individuals with chocolate cysts can receive the cervic...

[Read More] Can Women with Endometriosis Receive the Cervical Cancer Vaccine?


Navigating Concerns About Down Syndrome in Pregnancy: A Guide for Expecting Mothers

Possible Down syndrome? Hello Dr. Lin, today during the ultrasound, there were bright spots detected, and the doctor mentioned a suspected case of Down syndrome. However, I was also informed that the probability of this actually occurring is quite high, but the likelihood of not ...


Dr. Lin Wenbin Reply:
After 24 weeks, even if the fetus has Down syndrome, abortion is not permitted. Individuals with Down syndrome can survive, and their human rights cannot be denied. In cases of beta-thalassemia, as long as one parent is normal, there is no issue. Other factors, such as economic c...

[Read More] Navigating Concerns About Down Syndrome in Pregnancy: A Guide for Expecting Mothers


Understanding Uterine Fibroids: Impact on Fertility and Health Concerns

About uterine fibroids? Hello, doctor. I have a 3 cm uterine fibroid. Will this make it difficult for me to conceive? Sometimes I experience sudden pain in my lower abdomen. The doctor mentioned that there is a cyst on the right ovary, and the pain is related to bleeding from the...


Dr. Lin Wenbin Reply:
The chance of infertility caused by uterine fibroids is not very high, so it is important to check for other factors contributing to infertility. When fibroids undergo degeneration, they can cause pain. Conditions such as adenomyosis and endometriosis can also lead to pain, so pr...

[Read More] Understanding Uterine Fibroids: Impact on Fertility and Health Concerns


Understanding Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy: Pre-Marital Health Screening Insights

Regarding Down syndrome and cerebral palsy! My second brother has cerebral palsy (which seems to be non-hereditary), and my cousin (the daughter of my mother's sister) has Down syndrome. Since I am getting married soon, I would like to know if there are any prenatal screenin...


Dr. Liu Yuhong Reply:
Down syndrome screening is a test to check for the possibility of the fetus having Down syndrome, which is caused by an abnormality in chromosome 21. Down syndrome screening cannot be part of premarital health checks, as there is no fetus to test for Down syndrome. Cerebral palsy...

[Read More] Understanding Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy: Pre-Marital Health Screening Insights


Understanding Egg Donation: Ethical Considerations and Health Risks

Regarding egg donation issues? Hello, Doctor: I apologize for bothering you again. A friend told me last night about recent advertisements regarding egg donation. She mentioned that donating eggs to infertility centers can yield a reward of NT$99,000 in just ten days, and asked i...


Dr. Lin Wenbin Reply:
Egg donation can assist women with infertility. However, it is important to discuss any potential hereditary diseases with the reproductive specialist. Donated eggs can only be used by one couple. To prevent consanguinity, there is also a registration process with the Department ...

[Read More] Understanding Egg Donation: Ethical Considerations and Health Risks


Understanding Chromosome 16 Abnormalities and Recurrent Miscarriages

Abnormalities of the 16th chromosome? Hello, I have had two miscarriages within the past six months (both through in vitro fertilization). After the first natural miscarriage, I discovered an ectopic pregnancy that required surgical intervention, and the second was also a surgica...


Dr. Cao Guotao Reply:
Hello, having an extra chromosome on the 16th pair is a common cause of miscarriage. Abnormalities in the 16th chromosome often lead to stillbirth or the baby dying shortly after birth. Alpha-thalassemia has a gene located on the 16th chromosome, which is unrelated to having an e...

[Read More] Understanding Chromosome 16 Abnormalities and Recurrent Miscarriages


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