First trimester screening

First Trimester Screening (Nuchal Translucency and Blood Test)

The first trimester screening is a safe, optional test for all pregnant women. It's a way of checking foetal risk of certain birth defects, such as Down syndrome, Edward's syndrome (trisomy 18), trisomy 13 and many other chromosomal abnormalities as well as heart problems.

It comprises USG and some  blood tets called Double marker tets at 11-13.6 weeks. It is a statistical evaluation of possible  risk . However, it's not a diagnosis

What the Test Does?

Double marker tests? What tets are done?? The screening involves two steps. A blood test checks for levels of two substances -- pregnancy-associated 1) plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and 2)  human chorionic gonadotropin.

A special ultrasound, called a nuchal translucency screening, measures foetal nasal bone as well as the fluid at the back of foetal neck. A high volume of fluid can , I repeat scan , be a sign of problems.

The combined result of the blood tests and the ultrasound gives the patient & doctor concerned a sense of her foetal s risk of chromosomal disorders and heart diseases. . However, it's not a diagnosis. Most women who have an abnormal first trimester screening go on to have healthy babies.

Whether one get this test is her choice(optional) . Some women want the test so they can prepare. Others don't. They may decide that knowing the results wouldn't change anything. Or they feel that the test could result in unnecessary stress and invasive testing. However knowing of possible risks would allow for increased monitoring during the indexed pregnancy as well as giving you delivery options (special hospital, pediatric surgeon availability).

How the Test Is Done

The first trimester screen won't harm foetus. A technician will take a quick blood sample from her  arm or fingertip.

The nuchal translucency screening is a normal ultrasound. It will take between 20 to 40 minutes.

What to Know About Test Results

If ones results are normal,

Her foetus baby has a low risk of these birth defects. If they're abnormal, she will be suggested further tests to rule out problems. These could include ultrasounds or invasive procedures, like CVS or amniocentesis.

. Remember: This test can't diagnose birth defects. It only shows if she  has a greater risk than average of having some chromosomal abnormalities .

Sometimes test results are combined with a second- trimester screening. In that case, one  may not get test results until her  second trimester. Or she may get the results, and then get combined results after the second test.