Pre-Conception Counselling

A planned pregnancy has a more favourable outcome than an unplanned one. The aim of the pre-conception consult is to optimize your health, address modifiable risk factors and provide education to couples about a healthy pregnancy. Various screening tests can be performed to assess your risk.

1st Trimester

The 1st trimester is an important period whereby the fetus is developing rapidly. Organ development occurs at this time. An ultrasound scan is usually performed to confirm the pregnancy, ensure that the pregnancy is in the correct location and to accurately date the pregnancy so as to confirm your Estimated Delivery Date (EDD).

The combined First Trimester Screening (cFTS) is recommended as an effective way of assessing the risk of a fetus having Down syndrome or other common chromosomal disorders e.g. Trisomy 13 or 18. This test consists of a high resolution ultrasound scan and screening of a maternal blood sample, and is done between 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. This test is also able to detect early structural anomalies, screen for pre-eclampsia as well as other atypical chromosomal abnormalities.

The Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) is the most sensitive screening test for Down syndrome. It is able to detect placental DNA present in the mother’s blood to suspect the presence of Down syndrome. This blood test can be drawn from the mother from 10 weeks of pregnancy onwards.

2nd Trimester

The 2nd trimester is the time for you to have a detailed fetal anomaly screening ultrasound to check on the development of the major organs of the fetus. This is a standard ultrasound scan done between 18 to 21 weeks of pregnancy using high resolution ultrasound.

3rd Trimester

The 3rd trimester is when we monitor the growth and well-being of the fetus. Some common pregnancy related medical conditions such as gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia may also develop during this time. It is important to see your doctor regularly to check for these conditions.

3D and 4D ultrasound scans can be performed between 24 to 30 weeks of pregnancy. 3D and 4D ultrasounds are not standard tests and are optional. 3D ultrasounds are not as efficient as 2D ultrasounds for the detection of fetal anomalies. However, 3D ultrasound can serve as an adjunct to improve the accuracy of prenatal diagnosis.

Labour and Delivery

Most women will deliver naturally via a normal vaginal delivery. Some women may require a pre-planned caesarean section because of conditions like low-lying placenta or breech presentation. Some women may also need an emergency caesarean delivery if there are labour complications like fetal distress or poor progress of labour.

Postnatal Care

The postnatal period can be defined as the first 6 weeks after birth. Postnatal care involves helping you cope with recovery after your pregnancy. Care for any post-delivery wounds, care for your baby and breastfeeding advice are some aspects of postnatal care. Mood changes can occur during this period and timely intervention may be needed to prevent postnatal depression. During the postnatal consultation, health screening and family planning will also be discussed with you.