An ultrasound scan allows Dr. Fong to monitor the development of the pregnancy. Through the ultrasound scan, he will be able to monitor the position and size of the baby, as well as the placement of the placenta.

For some parents, the scan would help them determine the sex of their new bundle of joy and this makes shopping for their baby’s items and nursery decoration ever so exciting. It is also a great time for the happy couple and their families as they select the perfect name for the baby!

There are some non-invasive fetal testing that could be done in the first trimester for an early and accurate detection of fetal chromosomal anomalies. Some of the tests include:

1. First Trimester Screening (aka OSCAR)
   The First Trimester Screening can be done between the 11th to 13th week of pregnancy. It is conducted for an early screening for Down’s Syndrome (Trisomy 21), and involves an ultrasound measurement of the foetus’ nuchal translucency and a blood sample for the analysis of levels of free beta-hCG and PAPP-A (Pregnancy-associated plasma Protein-A).

Upon assessing the risk, the doctor would advise if a further invasive test is necessary.

IGene® Prenatal Test
The IGene® Prenatal Test is the latest non-invasive test currently. It is an early and accurate screening tool for Down’s Syndrome and other trisomy conditions and can be done from the 10th week of pregnancy by just using a blood sample from the mother.

In normal cases, each of us has 23 pairs of chromosomes – strands of DNA and proteins that contain genetic information. In trisomy, there are extra (3) copies of a particular chromosome as compared to the normal pair.

The IGene® Prenatal Test determines the risk of common fetal trisomies such as Trisomy 21, Trisomy 18 and Trisomy 13.

Following the test, the doctor would advise if a further invasive investigation is necessary.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is done if there is a risk of the foetus having Down’s Syndrome. This involves inserting a needle through the abdomen to extract chorionic villi (placental) cells for laboratory testing. This invasive test is normally conducted in a hospital within the 11th to 14th week of pregnancy.

Amniocentesis is an invasive diagnostic test carried out to assess if the foetus might be at risk of having Down’s Syndrome. Your gynae might order this test if the mother is 35 years old and above and/or have a family history of the above-mentioned conditions.

This test is normally carried out between the 16th to 20th week of pregnancy in the hospital to extract the amniotic fluid which surrounds the foetus. A needle would be inserted into the womb to extract the fluid.

Dr. Fong will also advise on the nutrition and diet choices pregnant mothers should take during pregnancy. It is important for all expectant mothers to eat a balanced meal with a variety of fruits and vegetables. Folic acid, which is commonly found in fruits and vegetables, are useful in preventing certain brain and nerve defects.

Be mindful not to over-indulge in your love for caffeine. One cup of coffee should be sufficient to sustain you for a day. Tobacco and drinking are not beneficial for you or junior, so you are strongly advised to abstain from them.