First Trimester Screening

First Trimester Screening

What is a First Trimester Screening?

A first trimester screening performed roughly between 11-13 weeks of pregnancy is used to detect chromosomal abnormalities such as Down's Syndrome, Edwards' Syndrome, and Patau's Syndrome. It involves a blood test and an ultrasound screening referred to as a ‘Nuchal Scan’ or ‘Nuchal Translucency Screening.’ The screening helps your OB/GYN determine the fetus’ risk of these abnormalities.

How is a Nuchal Scan Performed?

A nuchal scan is done by ultrasound. The ultrasound technician will measure the amount of fluid in the back of the baby's neck. While all babies have some fluid in the back of their necks, excess fluid in the back of a baby's neck can be a symptom of an abnormality.

When Is a Nuchal Scan Performed?

Nuchal scans are generally performed between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation. Tests completed before or after this range are not as accurate.

How Accurate Are Nuchal Scans?

Nuchal scans are screening tests - not diagnostic tests. This means they can be used to assess the risk or likelihood that your baby has an abnormality, but they cannot diagnose a condition. If your nuchal scan does detect an abnormality, you will then have the option to pursue further diagnostic testing.

First trimester combined screenings typically detect Down Syndrome 85 percent of the time. However, they also give a false positive 5 percent of the time, indicating an abnormality that doesn't exist.

What Should I Do If My Nuchal Scan Comes Back Positive?

If your nuchal scan indicates that there might be an abnormality, the first thing you need to do is try to relax. Just because the scan says something could be wrong with your baby's chromosomes does not necessarily mean that something is.

At this point, you will likely have the option to pursue diagnostic testing such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis to understand better what is happening. However, these tests do come with increased risks, so you will want to talk to your doctor to find out which course of action is best for you.

What Risks are Associated with Nuchal Scans?

Nuchal scans themselves present no known risks. However, receiving a false positive can lead to undue anxiety, more testing, and even terminating a pregnancy needlessly.

Nuchal scans are routine and relatively risk-free, so do not be alarmed if your doctor recommends one. He or she is likely just checking to be sure.

Disclaimer:
The information on this website is provided for educational and information purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a licensed medical provider and follow their recommendations regardless of what you read on this website. If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Links to other third-party websites are provided for your convenience only. If you decide to access any of the third-party websites, you do so entirely at your own risk and subject to the terms of use for those websites. Neither Associates in Women's Health, nor any contributor to this website, makes any representation, express or implied, regarding the information provided on this website or any information you may access on a third-party website using a link. Use of this website does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you would like to request an appointment with a health care provider, please call our office at (734) 457-9034.

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