Prenatal testing Quick guide to common tests

Prenatal testing tests can provide information regarding your child's health before she or he is birthed. Take into consideration the timing and what prenatal testing can reveal.

Prenatal testing is supplied in all maternities. Here's an overview of typical prenatal testing tests:

What it is When it's done What the results might tell you Follow-up

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening

Blood test As early as week 10 Risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 and fetal sex Possible invasive testing, such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis

1st trimester screening

Blood test and ultrasound 11-14 weeks Risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and trisomy 18 Possible invasive testing, such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis; cell-free DNA screening may also be considered

Quad screen

Blood test 15-22 weeks Risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18 and open neural tube defects, such as spina bifida Possible targeted ultrasound, or invasive testing such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis; cell-free DNA screening may also be considered

Some health care carriers pick to incorporate the outcomes of initial trimester screening with the quad display-- although you won't discover the outcomes of this sequential testing till both examinations are completed and evaluated.

Additionally, fetal ultrasound usually plays a vital function in prenatal treatment as well as screening. Early in maternity, ultrasound can be made use of to verify as well as date a maternity. Later on, ultrasound can be made use of to detect certain birth defects and fetal anomalies, including neural tube issues.

Blood tests and also ultrasounds posture limited risks for you and your infant. If the results of a blood test or ultrasound are positive or uneasy, your healthcare service provider may recommend an extra intrusive analysis test-- such as chorionic villus tasting or amniocentesis. These examinations can be used to detect conditions, yet they lug a small danger of maternity loss.

If you're concerned concerning prenatal testing or wonder whether you need specific screening or diagnostic examinations, review the threats and benefits with your health care service provider.

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