Delivering babies since 1939

Diagnostic test that checks for problems in the developing fetus. It is usually done between weeks 15 and 20 of pregnancy for most indications, but can also be performed any time after 20 weeks. It is an invasive test, whereby a very thin needle is introduced into the uterine cavity under ultrasound guidance, and a small amount of amniotic fluid is taken and sent for testing. We can use this fluid to test for chromosomal abnormalities, as well as for a large variety of genetic and hereditary disorders.

Invasive prenatal diagnostic test usually performed between weeks 10 and 13 of pregnancy. A thin needle is introduced into the placenta under ultrasound guidance (inside the uterus, but outside the sac where the fetus develops). A small amount of tissue is taken from the placenta and sent for testing. We can test for chromosomal, genetic and hereditary disorders such as Thalassemia.

In our maternal-fetal medicine clinic we offer consultations and provide management to patients with complicated pregnancies. We also offer pre-pregnancy counseling for patients with medical problems or with previous complicated pregnancies, and to patients with current or previous fetal anomalies. We tailor our approach according to patients' needs, from a one-time consult, to co-management, to full-enrollment in our system.

Ultrasound is a non-invasive prenatal examination of the fetus. It is used to do accurate dating of the pregnancy, to determine the position and growth of the fetus, the number of fetuses, the position and health of the placenta, and the blood flow in the uterus, placenta and the fetus. With this technology we can do a very detailed examination of the fetus, look for anatomical defects, detect signs of chromosomal abnormalities, and diagnose congenital syndromes.

First trimester scan, also known as the NT scan because it measures the fetal nuchal translucency thickness (a thick increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, mainly trisomy 21), is done at 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. It can detect serious early fetal defects and early indications of chromosome problems. It is during this time that the fetal sex is fully developed and can be seen.

Second trimester ultrasound is usually done starting 18 weeks of pregnancy, but can be done as early as 16 weeks if needed. The best overall timing is 20 to 23 weeks, especially if combined with 4D. It is a detailed scan of the fetal anatomy, and can detect additional markers of chromosomal abnormalities.

Third trimester scan is usually done at 27 to 30 weeks. It provides proper assessment of fetal growth, the placenta and amniotic fluid, and additional fetal defects that develop later in pregnancy.

An epidural is a procedure that injects a local anaesthetic into the space around the spinal nerves in your lower back. This anaesthetic usually blocks the pain from labour contractions and during the birth very effectively.

In addition to standard epidural analgesia, Trad Hospital also offers the Trad Analgesic Cocktail (TAC), a painless childbirth method introduced by Dr. Sami Trad in 1961.

DR SAMI TRAD’S ORIGINAL “PROGRAMMED METHOD OF PAINLESS CHILBIRTH” BY INJECTION OF TAC (TRAD ANALGESIC COCKTAIL).