Pregnancy is an extremely emotional and stressful period. Every cold, every twinge, and every visit to Inova can cause a surge of panic over whether or not your child is healthy. You tell yourself that as long as you follow the books, eat well, and stay healthy, your baby will grow healthy and active within you. However, your baby may not be receiving all of the necessary nutrients you’re providing if your placenta is damaged or insufficient.
Diagnosing Placental Insufficiency
A damaged placenta usually doesn’t cause physical symptoms for the mother; instead, it requires internal examinations to be assessed and diagnosed. Unfortunately, this can cause a delay in diagnosing since your doctor will only be able to see it through an ultrasound.
- After about four months, during each visit, your doctor should measure the size of your uterus to make sure it’s growing normally.
- If it isn’t normal, an ultrasound should be ordered to assess the uterus placental growth and placement.
- Tests should also be done to check the amount of amniotic fluid within the placenta, as well as to make sure your baby’s movements are healthy and active.
Consequences of Delayed Diagnosis
If your doctor fails to see, misdiagnoses, or disregards a damaged placenta ultrasound, your baby could suffer severely. Without an intact placenta, your baby is not only unprotected, but he’s potentially being denied vital oxygen and nutrients required for proper development. This could result in several debilitating and lifelong injuries:
- Fetal distress
- Premature birth
- Growth problems
- Cerebral palsy
- Underdeveloped lungs and organs
- Brain trauma (underdeveloped and hypoxia-related injuries)
- Heart problems (hypoxia, underdeveloped and fetal distress related injuries)
Your doctor should be able to tell throughout your pregnancy whether your placenta becomes compromised. However, without consistent ultrasounds, precaution is your best defense. If your baby suddenly becomes less active in your belly, seek medical attention immediately and request an ultrasound to be on the safe side.
Contact us today if you believe your child suffered from a misdiagnosed or delayed placental insufficiency diagnosis. We’re here to help you fight for your child’s health.
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