Diagnosis
The simplest way for a diabetic mother to know if there is a case of placental insufficiency is by being alert to the movement of the baby. It is important to visit a medical doctor for a proper checkup. The doctor goes through the woman’s health history and does a physical examination to check for signs.
There are certain tests that help the doctor confirm if there is a case of placental insufficiency, these tests include:
- Ultrasound: this is the use of sound waves with high frequency to view the organs of the mother. This scan is also known as a sonogram, it is used to monitor the development and size of the baby. This scan also helps the doctor to notice the size or any problems with the placenta.
- Fetal non stress test: this is a non-invasive (no cuts into the body) test done for expecting mothers. It is used to monitor the heart rate of the baby. This is not a necessary test for all mothers. It is mostly done when the pregnancy is overdue or normal movements of the baby are not noticed.
- Alpha-fetoprotein levels: this is a routine test done for expecting mothers on their 14th– 22nd This test is done to check the hormones produced by the liver of the baby and the placenta of the baby.
Alongside the physical examinations done by the doctor, the above tests and scans help confirm the presence of placental insufficiency and this helps the doctor know drugs to prescribe or advise or give the individual.