FAQ

During pregnancy, several tests and screenings are recommended to monitor the health of both the mother and the baby. 

Common Tests: 

• Blood tests: Check for blood type, anaemia, and infections. 
• Urine tests: Check for urinary tract infections and other issues. 
• Ultrasound: Visualize the foetus and assess its growth and development. 
• Multiple marker screening: Assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities. 
• Glucose tolerance test: Screen for gestational diabetes. 
• Group B strep test: Check for bacteria that can harm newborns.

To manage common discomforts like morning sickness and fatigue, try these tips: 

• For morning sickness: Eat small, frequent meals, avoid spicy or greasy foods, stay hydrated, and consider ginger remedies or acupressure bands. If symptoms are severe, consult your doctor. 
• For fatigue: Prioritize sleep, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, engage in gentle exercise, and manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation. 

Hormonal birth control (pills, patch, ring, implant, injection):  

• Spotting or bleeding between periods    
• Mood changes    
• Breast tenderness    
• Headaches    
• Weight gain or loss    
• Nausea    
• Decreased libido    

  Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):  

• Cramps and bleeding, especially in the first few months
• Increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) if inserted improperly

Other methods (condoms, diaphragms, spermicides):  

• Allergic reactions, especially with spermicides 

You should schedule your first prenatal visit as soon as you suspect you might be pregnant. Early prenatal care allows your healthcare provider to confirm your pregnancy, assess your health, identify potential risks, and monitor your baby’s development.

An IVF cycle involves several steps, including:

1. Hormone stimulation: This involves taking medication to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
2. Egg retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved through a minor surgical procedure.
3. Fertilization: The eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory.
4. Embryo transfer: One or more embryos are transferred to the uterus.
5. Pregnancy test: A pregnancy test is taken approximately two weeks after the embryo transfer.

The success rates of IVF vary depending on several factors, including the age of the woman, the cause of infertility, and the number of embryos transferred. Generally, the success rates are higher for younger women and for those with fewer fertility issues.

IVF carries some risks and side effects, including:

• Multiple births: The risk of having twins or triplets is higher with IVF.
• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS): This is a condition that occurs when the ovaries become overstimulated.
• Hormone-related side effects: Taking hormone medication can cause side effects such as hot flashes, mood swings, and headaches.
• Emotional stress: The IVF process can be emotionally stressful.

The IVF process typically takes several months, including the hormone stimulation phase, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, and waiting for pregnancy results. However, the exact timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances.

The frequency of gynaecological checkups depends on your age, health history, and any specific concerns you may have. Generally, it’s recommended to schedule annual checkups starting from your early 20s. However, if you’re sexually active, have symptoms like abnormal bleeding, pain, or discomfort, or have any other concerns, you may need to see a doctor more frequently.

Here are some tips to improve your urinary tract health:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out bacteria.
• Wipe correctly: After using the bathroom, wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from entering your urethra.
• Avoid irritants: Certain products, such as scented soaps, bubble baths, and feminine sprays, can irritate the urinary tract.
• Empty your bladder completely: Holding in urine for long periods of time can increase the risk of infection.
• Urinate after sex: This helps to flush out bacteria that may have entered the urethra during sex.

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and infertility. Treatment for endometriosis varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s individual needs. Some common treatment options include:  

• Pain medication: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers can help to manage pain.
• Hormone therapy: Birth control pills, patches, or injections can help to regulate hormone levels and reduce symptoms.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove endometrial tissue.

Some of the more common sources of acute pelvic pain, or pain that happens very suddenly, may include: Ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that happens outside the uterus) Pelvic inflammatory disease (also called PID, an infection of the reproductive organs) Twisted or ruptured ovarian cyst.

Your baby will need a series of immunizations to protect them from various infectious diseases. The specific schedule will vary depending on your location and the recommendations of your pediatrician. However, some common childhood immunizations include:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP): Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
• Polio: Protects against polio.
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR): Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Hib: Protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection.
• Hepatitis B: Protects against hepatitis B infection.
• Varicella: Protects against chickenpox.
• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV): Protects against pneumococcal infections.
• Rotavirus: Protects against rotavirus infection.

It’s important to follow the recommended immunization schedule and consult with your pediatrician for any questions or concerns.

The recommended age to start introducing solid foods to your baby is between 4 and 6 months. However, it’s important to wait until your baby is ready and showing signs of readiness, such as:

• Sitting up with support
• Losing the tongue-thrust reflex
• Showing interest in food

When you start introducing solids, start with single-ingredient foods and introduce new foods one at a time to monitor for any allergies or intolerances.

You should call the pediatrician if your baby:

• Has a fever
• Is vomiting or has diarrhea
• Is not feeding well
• Is not urinating or having fewer wet diapers than usual
• Is irritable or lethargic
• Has a rash or other unusual symptoms

It’s also a good idea to call the pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s health or development.

Well-child check-ups are typically scheduled: within the first week after birth, at 1, 2, 4-, 6-, 9-, and 12-months during infancy, every 3-6 months during toddler years, and annually from age 3 onwards. These visits monitor growth, development, and vaccinations.

Preparing your child involves following the surgeon’s instructions regarding fasting, medications, and hygiene. Explain the procedure in simple, age-appropriate terms to reduce fear and anxiety. You can use stories, play therapy, or books to help your child understand and feel more comfortable about the surgery.

On the surgery day, you’ll meet the surgical and anesthesia teams, who will review the plan and answer questions. Your child will receive anesthesia to ensure they are asleep and pain-free during the procedure. After surgery, they’ll be monitored in a recovery area before discharge or transfer to a hospital room, depending on the procedure’s complexity.

Yes, anesthesia is safe when administered by a qualified and trained anesthesiologist. These specialists are trained to adjust dosages and techniques based on the child’s age, weight, and medical history. Modern monitoring technologies and safety protocols further reduce risks, ensuring your child remains comfortable and safe throughout the procedure.

Some discomfort is normal, but pain is effectively managed using medications and child-friendly techniques. Pediatric teams specialize in minimizing pain and providing emotional support to ensure your child is as comfortable as possible during recovery. Pain management strategies may include medication, ice packs, and elevation.

The recovery process varies depending on the type of surgery and the child’s overall health. However, most children recover well with proper care. Here are some general tips for post-operative care: 

• Pain management: Administer pain medication as prescribed by the doctor. 
• Wound care: Keep the incision site clean and dry.
• Rest: Encourage your child to rest and avoid strenuous activity.
• Nutrition: Provide a healthy diet to promote healing. 
• Emotional support: Offer comfort and reassurance.

Your baby will need a series of immunizations to protect them from various infectious diseases. The specific schedule will vary depending on your location and the recommendations of your pediatrician. However, some common childhood immunizations include:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (DTP): Protects against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis.
• Polio: Protects against polio.
• Measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR): Protects against measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Hib: Protects against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) infection.
• Hepatitis B: Protects against hepatitis B infection.
• Varicella: Protects against chickenpox.
• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV): Protects against pneumococcal infections.
• Rotavirus: Protects against rotavirus infection.

It’s important to follow the recommended immunization schedule and consult with your pediatrician for any questions or concerns.

Babies may need NICU care for various reasons, including: 

• Premature birth
• Low birth weight
• Breathing problems (Respiratory distress syndrome, Meconium aspiration)
• Congenital abnormalities
• Jaundice
• Feeding problems
• Hypoglycaemia/ low blood sugar
• Infections
• Requirement for surgical intervention
• Difficult or complicated delivery

Yellowing of the skin and eyes indicates jaundice, caused by elevated bilirubin levels. Jaundice is common in newborns and usually appears 2-3 days after birth.

• Concerning signs include jaundice appearing in the first 24 hours or spreading to the legs.
• Severe jaundice can cause lethargy, poor feeding, or high-pitched crying.

Phototherapy is often used to treat significant jaundice. Regular follow-ups with your pediatrician can monitor bilirubin levels.

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplained death of an infant. While the exact cause of SIDS is unknown, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk:

• Put your baby to sleep on their back
• Share a room with your baby for the first six months
• Don’t smoke around your baby
• Breastfeed your baby, if possible
• Make sure your baby’s crib is safe and free of any loose bedding or pillows

It’s important to remember that while these steps can help to reduce the risk of SIDS, there is no guaranteed way to prevent it. If you have any concerns, talk to your pediatrician.

Both facials and peels are cosmetic treatments designed to improve the appearance of the skin. However, they differ in their approach:

• Facial: A facial is a non-invasive treatment that typically involves cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and masking. It can help to improve skin tone and texture, reduce acne, and hydrate the skin.
• Peel: A peel is a chemical treatment that uses acids or other agents to remove the top layer of skin. It can help to reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Peels can be superficial, medium-depth, or deep-depth, depending on the strength of the chemical used.

The best age to start getting Botox or fillers depends on your individual needs and goals. Generally, these treatments are suitable for adults of any age who are concerned about wrinkles, fine lines, or facial volume loss. However, it’s important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine the best approach for you.

The time it takes to see results from a body contouring treatment varies depending on the specific procedure and your individual body. Some treatments, such as liposuction, may show results immediately, while others, such as CoolSculpting, may take several weeks or months to produce noticeable changes.

All cosmetic surgeries carry risks, including:

• Infection: There is a risk of infection after any surgical procedure.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding can occur during or after surgery.
• Scarring: Scars may form at the incision sites.
• Numbness: Numbness or loss of sensation in the treated area may occur.
• Asymmetry: The results may not be symmetrical or balanced.

It’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of any cosmetic procedure carefully before making a decision.

• General anesthesia: Induces complete unconsciousness and loss of sensation.
• Regional anesthesia: Numbs a larger area of the body, such as for spinal or epidural blocks.
• Local anesthesia: Numbs a small, specific area for minor procedures.
• Sedation: Relaxes and reduces awareness while maintaining responsiveness. The anesthesiologist selects the type based on the procedure and medical history.

Preparing for anesthesia involves following specific instructions to ensure safety and effectiveness. It’s crucial to provide your anesthesiologist with detailed information about your medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications, allergies, or previous reactions to anesthesia. You may also need to stop smoking or drinking alcohol before the procedure, as these can affect how anesthesia works. Proper preparation minimizes complications and ensures a smoother surgical experience. Typically, patients are advised to fast for at least 6-8 hours before surgery to reduce the risk of aspiration during the procedure.

• Usually, patients must fast for at least 6-8 hours before surgery to prevent complications like aspiration. Clear liquids may be allowed up to 2 hours before, but specific guidelines depend on the procedure and type of anesthesia.
• Essential medications may be taken with small sips of water as instructed by your doctor.
• After the Surgery start with clear liquids and gradually move to solids based on recovery and procedure type once cleared by the doctor.
• Fasting times vary for infants, children, and specific cases like breastfeeding.
• Following these guidelines is crucial to avoid complications and ensure the surgery proceeds safely.

Depending on the procedure, you can discuss your preferences with your anesthesiologist. They will consider your medical history, comfort, and the surgeon’s recommendations to decide the most appropriate and safe type of anesthesia.

Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique that uses small incisions, a camera (laparoscope), and specialized instruments to perform surgeries with precision. Unlike open surgery, which requires a large incision, laparoscopic procedures result in less pain, minimal scarring, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. It is commonly used for gallbladder removal, hernia repair, and appendix surgery

Before surgery, follow your doctor’s instructions regarding fasting (usually 6-8 hours before
surgery). Inform your surgeon about any medications, allergies, or existing health conditions.
Stop smoking and alcohol consumption to promote better healing. Stay hydrated, manage
stress, and arrange for post-surgery support at home.

All surgeries carry some risks, including infection, bleeding, anesthesia reactions, and blood
clots. Other complications depend on the specific procedure, such as organ injury or delayed
wound healing. At Altrus Healthcare, we follow stringent safety protocols, advanced surgical
techniques, and post-operative care measures to minimize risks and ensure the best outcomes.

Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. Minimally invasive procedures typically allow for a faster recovery (a few days to a week), while major open surgeries may require several weeks.

• For minor surgeries, patients can resume normal activities in a few days.
• Major surgeries may require a few weeks of rest before resuming strenuous activities.
• Your surgeon will provide personalized recovery guidelines.

We offer comprehensive post-surgical care, including wound management, pain control, physiotherapy (if needed), nutritional guidance, and follow-up consultations to monitor recovery.

You can book an appointment by calling our hospital, visiting our website, or walking in for an in-person consultation