Fetal Medicine: Ensuring a Healthy Start for Your Baby
Fetal medicine is a specialised branch of obstetrics that focuses on the health and development of the baby inside the womb. It involves monitoring, diagnosing, and treating conditions affecting the fetus before birth. This area of medicine plays a crucial role in detecting abnormalities early, providing targeted care, and improving outcomes for both the mother and the baby.
Why Is Fetal Medicine Important?
Fetal medicine helps in:
- Early detection of birth defects and genetic disorders
- Monitoring growth and development of the fetus
- Managing high-risk pregnancies
- Planning timely interventions when needed
- Ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby
Common Conditions Handled by Fetal Medicine Specialists
Fetal medicine specialists are trained to handle a wide range of prenatal issues, including:
- Fetal growth restriction (FGR)
- Twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS)
- Congenital heart defects
- Chromosomal abnormalities (like Down syndrome)
- Neural tube defects
- Infections during pregnancy (like rubella or cytomegalovirus)
Key Fetal Medicine Procedures
Some of the common diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in fetal medicine include:
1. Ultrasound Scans
- Nuchal translucency scan (11–14 weeks)
- Anomaly scan (18–22 weeks)
- Growth scan (third trimester)
2. Fetal Echocardiography
- A detailed scan of the baby’s heart for any structural problems.
3. Amniocentesis & Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
- Tests used to detect genetic and chromosomal abnormalities.
4. Doppler Studies
- Assesses blood flow in the fetus and placenta to monitor fetal well-being.
When Should You See a Fetal Medicine Specialist?
You may be referred to a fetal medicine expert if:
- You are above 35 years of age during pregnancy
- There is a history of genetic disorders
- Your pregnancy is high-risk (diabetes, hypertension, IVF, etc.)
- Your doctor suspects a fetal abnormality in routine scans
- You have had previous pregnancy complications
Consult the Best Fetal Medicine Specialist in Kochi
At Lifeline Hospital, we understand how important your baby’s health is. Our expert fetal medicine specialists provide advanced diagnostic care, personalised counselling, and early treatment options for a safe and smooth pregnancy journey.
We offer the latest fetal scans, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), and high-risk pregnancy care — all under one roof. Trust Lifeline Hospital, the best fetal medicine specialist in Kochi, to support you at every step of your pregnancy.
Conclusion
Fetal medicine is essential for ensuring the health of your unborn child. With early detection, accurate diagnosis, and specialised care, many complications can be managed effectively. If you are pregnant or planning to be, make sure to include fetal medicine in your prenatal care.
For expert guidance and compassionate care, visit Lifeline Hospital, Kochi, your trusted partner in maternity and fetal medicine.

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