I am 13 weeks pregnant and currently living in Malaysia. During my recent check-up, I was advised to have a list of scans, and I am unsure if all of them are necessary. In India, I have heard that only the NT scan is usually recommended, so I am confused and would like to know which scans are essential at this stage of pregnancy.

At 13 weeks of pregnancy, the most important scan is the nuchal translucency (NT) scan, which is usually done along with blood tests as part of first-trimester screening. Some doctors may also recommend a dating or early anomaly scan if it has not been done earlier, but not all suggested scans are essential for every woman. Different countries and hospitals may follow slightly different screening protocols based on risk assessment and local guidelines. It is best to discuss each scan with your doctor or obstetrician to understand which tests are necessary for your specific pregnancy.

If semen is ejaculated outside the vaginal opening, is there still a chance of pregnancy?

Yes, there is still a small chance of pregnancy if semen is ejaculated close to the vaginal opening. Sperm can sometimes travel into the vagina and lead to fertilisation, particularly during the fertile window (a six-day period in a woman?s menstrual cycle when pregnancy can occur). The risk is lower than with ejaculation inside the vagina, but it is not completely zero. If this has happened recently and pregnancy is a concern, emergency contraception taken within the recommended time frame can reduce the risk.

I got married five months ago and had a miscarriage two months ago. My periods are slightly delayed this month, and I am concerned about it. After intercourse, I notice semen leaking from the vagina, and I am worried about whether this affects conception. My doctor has prescribed Candid-CL, Candiforce, and Lactogut BV. Is this leakage normal, and does it reduce my chances of getting pregnant?

After a miscarriage, it is common for periods to be slightly delayed or irregular for a few months as your hormones settle. The leakage of semen after intercourse is normal and does not reduce the chances of pregnancy, as sperm quickly enter the cervix. The medicines prescribed are usually to treat vaginal infection and restore healthy bacteria, so please take them as advised by your doctor. If your period remains delayed, consider doing a pregnancy test and follow up with your doctor for reassurance.

I am one month post a normal vaginal delivery and would like to start using a Copper-T for contraception. When is the recommended waiting period before I can safely insert a Copper-T after delivery?

A Copper-T (intrauterine device) can be inserted immediately after delivery or within the first 48 hours, but if this period is missed, it is usually advised to wait. Since you are now one month post-delivery, the recommended time is around six weeks after childbirth, when the uterus has fully healed and returned to its normal size. This helps reduce the risk of infection and device expulsion. Please have a check-up with your doctor to confirm that you are suitable for insertion at this stage.