To safeguard your child from potential complications, it’s crucial to undergo specific tests throughout your pregnancy.
During the neonatal period, children can contract infections or disorders from their mothers, some of which are treatable, while others may pose long-term health risks. It’s vital for mothers to undergo specific tests during pregnancy to ensure the initial health of the baby.
To delve into this topic, an expert shared insights on the essential tests and scans pregnant mothers should undergo. Additionally, it’s crucial to identify which tests should be conducted in children under the age of 10 to prevent potential long-term illnesses.
Before delving into the tests, it’s important to understand what genital health issues can impact a baby during birth from their parents. To shed light on this, the OnlyMyHealth team consulted Dr. Gagandeep Kaur, Consultant in Paediatrics & Neonatology at Manipal Hospital, Patiala.
Frequently Occurring Health Issues Present at Birth in Children
Dr. Gagandeep highlights that children can manifest numerous congenital health issues. Enumerating some prevalent conditions, she mentions, “These include congenital syndromes, Down syndrome, congenital hypothyroidism, genetic blood disorders such as thalassemia, G6PD deficiency, sickle cell anemia, and hemophilia. Congenital heart defects like atrial septal defect and ventricular septal defect, congenital kidney diseases, congenital infections such as tetanus and rubella, are common in children. Additionally, sexual differentiation disorders are also congenital.”
Common Health Issues, Including Nutritional Concerns, in Children
Dr. Gagandeep emphasizes the significance of nutrition for children and states, “Nutritionally, insufficient blood levels can lead to anemia in kids. Inadequate nutrition may result in malnutrition among children. Additionally, issues such as overweight and obesity are increasingly observed in kids.”
Given the vulnerability of children at a young age, it’s essential to provide proper care to prevent the rapid onset of illnesses. Dr. Gagandeep notes, “Common health concerns in young children, apart from inherited or genital problems, include recurrent infections, common colds, asthma, sinusitis, diarrhea, urinary tract infections, seasonal infections, dengue, malaria, and typhoid.”
Essential Tests and Care Measures for Expectant Mothers During Pregnancy
Dr. Gagandeep underscores the significance of antenatal visits as a primary aspect of prenatal care. Additionally, she highlights the crucial role of prenatal supplements in maintaining the health of both the mother and the baby. According to Dr. Gagandeep, “Folic acid stands out as one of the most crucial vitamins, recommended for consumption three months prior to conception and three months post-conception. This regimen helps prevent neural tube defects and congenital disorders. Furthermore, iron and calcium supplements are vital, with iron aiding in maintaining maternal hemoglobin levels, thereby reducing the risk of anemia in the baby.”
Regarding tests and scans during pregnancy, Dr. Gagandeep suggests:
1. TORCH Panel: This test screens for congenital infections such as tetanus and rubella.
2. Oral Glucose Tolerance Test: It’s essential for monitoring maternal glucose levels to mitigate the risk of diabetes in the child in the long term.
In addition to the above, Dr. Gagandeep emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring of blood pressure and growth scans. She explains, “These growth scans, conducted at specific intervals throughout pregnancy, enable us to identify any potential genetic abnormalities or defects in the baby’s heart, kidneys, or other organs.”
Infant Assessments
As outlined by Dr. Gagandeep, a standard set of seven tests is conducted on newborns to identify significant conditions such as thyroid disorders, metabolic disorders, G6PD deficiency, among others. Additionally, a hearing assessment is administered within the first month of the infant’s life to detect any congenital hearing impairments.
Bottomline
Pregnancy is a remarkable and tender journey for expectant mothers, marked by its delicate nature. It’s essential to undergo regular tests to safeguard the health of both the mother and the baby. Cherish every moment, from the growing baby bump to the intimate connection forged during these precious months. Remember to prioritize self-care to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby, fostering a healthy and joyous journey together.