
If a previous pregnancy or child was affected by a congenital anomaly, genetic condition, abnormal scan, stillbirth or unexplained neonatal problem, the next pregnancy should begin with careful records review, recurrence-risk counselling and a targeted fetal medicine plan.

A single isolated anomaly may have a different recurrence risk than multiple anomalies or a syndrome pattern.
Chromosomal, single-gene, metabolic and familial conditions need targeted genetic counselling and sometimes parental testing.
Diabetes, medicines, infections, folate deficiency, maternal illness or placental disease may influence prevention and monitoring.
| Record | What it helps clarify | Possible next step |
|---|---|---|
| Previous anomaly scan images/report | Exact fetal structure involved and whether diagnosis was complete. | Targeted early scan and detailed anomaly scan. |
| Genetic test report | Chromosome, microarray, exome or single-gene result. | Genetic counselling, parental testing or targeted fetal testing. |
| Autopsy or neonatal report | Confirms diagnosis after birth or pregnancy loss. | Refined recurrence risk and organ-specific scan plan. |
| Photographs / discharge papers | Helps identify syndromic pattern when genetic report is absent. | Clinical genetics referral if needed. |
| Maternal medical records | Diabetes, thyroid, BP, infections, medicines, autoimmune disease. | Preconception and pregnancy risk reduction plan. |
There is no single recurrence number for all anomalies. Risk depends on whether the condition was isolated, chromosomal, single-gene, multifactorial, infection-related, placental or unknown.
The plan may include preconception counselling, early viability scan, NT scan, early targeted scan, NIPT or diagnostic testing, CVS/amniocentesis if indicated, anomaly scan, fetal echo, neurosonography, Doppler, fetal MRI referral or serial follow-up.
Genetic Counselling Anomaly ScanSome risks can be reduced, such as folic-acid-sensitive neural tube defects or uncontrolled diabetes-related risks. Many genetic conditions need targeted testing rather than prevention.
Amniocentesis is considered when diagnostic information is needed. Whether it is appropriate depends on the previous diagnosis, current scan findings and counselling.
NIPT screens for common chromosomal conditions. It does not rule out all structural anomalies, single-gene disorders or syndromes. Detailed ultrasound and targeted testing may still be needed.
Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High-Risk Pregnancy Centre, Dhantoli, Nagpur, provides fetal ultrasound, prenatal diagnosis, fetal echocardiography, Doppler studies, genetic counseling and high-risk pregnancy care under Dr. Kunda Shahane.

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Surdham Complex, Behind Silver Palace Building, 2nd Lane from Panchsheel Sq., Opp. Yashwant Stadium, Dhantoli Nagpur - 440012
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