First trimester screening yesterday, I was 12w6d, but the doctor says the baby is measuring at 14 weeks. Unable to find out the gender but I think I'm having another boy. #ultrasound #baby4
WeMoms
2 Apr 2024
Early Pregnancy Screening
Early Pregnancy Screening
Early pregnancy screening plays a critical role in monitoring the health and development of the fetus, as well as identifying potential risks and conditions.
Understanding these screenings helps expectant mothers make informed decisions about their prenatal care.
Purpose of Early Pregnancy Screening
Early screening tests in pregnancy aim to assess the risk of certain genetic conditions or birth defects in the fetus.
- Risk Assessment: These tests are primarily for risk assessment rather than definitive diagnosis.
- Informed Decision Making: Results can help parents make informed decisions about further diagnostic testing or pregnancy management.
Types of Early Pregnancy Screenings
Various screenings are available, typically performed during the first and second trimesters.
- First Trimester Screening: Includes a blood test and an ultrasound to assess the risk of Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18, and other chromosomal abnormalities. The ultrasound measures the nuchal translucency, a fluid-filled space at the back of the baby's neck.
- Second Trimester Screening (Quadruple Screen): A blood test that measures levels of four different substances in the mother's blood. It helps assess the risk of Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and neural tube defects like spina bifida.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)
NIPT is a relatively new screening option available as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy.
- Cell-Free DNA Testing: NIPT analyzes small fragments of fetal DNA circulating in the mother's blood.
- High Accuracy: Offers a high degree of accuracy in detecting trisomy 21, 18, and 13.
- No Risk to Fetus: Being a non-invasive test, it poses no risk to the fetus.
Genetic Counseling
Genetic counseling can be a vital part of the screening process, particularly if screening results indicate a high risk.
- Understanding Risks and Options: A genetic counselor can help parents understand the risks, implications, and choices available.
- Support and Guidance: They provide emotional support and guidance in making decisions about further testing or pregnancy management.
Additional Diagnostic Tests
If screening results indicate a high risk, additional diagnostic tests may be recommended.
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): Performed between 10 and 13 weeks, CVS involves taking a small sample of cells from the placenta to test for genetic disorders.
- Amniocentesis: Usually conducted between 15 and 20 weeks, this test involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid to check for genetic abnormalities and certain infections.
Understanding the Risks and Limitations
While early pregnancy screenings are valuable, they have limitations and potential risks.
- False Positives and Negatives: Screenings can sometimes give false-positive or false-negative results.
- Not Definitive: These tests assess risk, not certainty. They don't detect all genetic or chromosomal conditions.
- Emotional Impact: The results can have a significant emotional impact on expectant parents.
When to Undergo Early Pregnancy Screening
- Timing: Screenings are typically offered at specific times during pregnancy, and it's important to adhere to these windows for accurate results.
- Individual Choice: Deciding whether to undergo screening is a personal choice and should be made after discussing with a healthcare provider.
Early pregnancy screenings are an important aspect of prenatal care, offering valuable information about the fetus's health and development.
Understanding the types of screenings available, their purposes, and limitations can help expectant parents navigate their choices and prepare for the journey ahead.
Learn more
First ultrasound
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Prenatal Genetic Testing
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Prenatal Screening Tests: What to Expect
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Kiarra
23 Jul 2023
I am 12 weeks 4 days pregnant . I did early foresight carrier screening to check the gender and any genetic abnormalities. Everything was negative and she's a girl. My son is gonna be a good big brother.
Addelyn
Did you do unity boot testing?
27 Mar 2024
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Shana
30 May 2023
maternal serum screening has anyone got this done and does it tell you the gender of the baby?
Stacy ♥️🤞🏾
Never heard of it
27 Mar 2024
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Stephanie
13 May 2023
Has anyone ever done a carrier screening during pregnancy? If so what were the results and outcome. I’m nervous and my anxiety is high because I never had this offered to me with my other two children so this is the first time seeing this
Stephanie
I believe so but it’s a part called carrier screening where they detect if you are a carrier or not
27 Mar 2024
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Mia
I did and the results were good I was negative for everything
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Abbie
23 Jan 2023
I'm 13 weeks pregnant 🥰 & Last week my test results for my genetic screening, came back.. and .., im having a girl!
Bianca
Any symptoms do you have morning sickness a lot
27 Mar 2024
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Tiphanie
Congratulations
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Kelsey
16 Aug 2022
Any early pregnancy’s what was ur h h level I know I’m early but why is it so low I’m having a panic attack 😂
Jasmine
What was it ?
27 Mar 2024
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Kiara
3 weeks I was 500 4 days later it jumped to 3000
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