What tests are included in high-risk pregnancy screening?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
High-risk pregnancy screening typically includes tests such as Down syndrome screening, non-invasive DNA testing, and amniocentesis. Down syndrome screening is generally performed between 15 and 20 weeks of gestation and can detect, to some extent, whether the fetus has chromosomal abnormalities. If the Down syndrome screening indicates a high risk, non-invasive DNA testing can be conducted around 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Pregnancy high-risk screening usually includes tests such as Down syndrome screening, non-invasive DNA testing, and amniocentesis.
1. Down Syndrome Screening
Down syndrome screening is generally performed between 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy and can detect, to some extent, whether the fetus has chromosomal abnormalities.
2. Non-Invasive DNA Testing
If the Down syndrome screening indicates a high risk, non-invasive DNA testing can be conducted around 20 weeks of pregnancy. This test involves drawing peripheral venous blood from the mother to extract fetal DNA for analysis, thereby determining whether there are chromosomal abnormalities.
3. Amniocentesis
If the non-invasive DNA test also shows a high risk, amniocentesis may be further performed to collect amniotic fluid for diagnosing whether the fetus has chromosomal disorders or single-gene diseases.
In addition to the above methods, other examinations such as detailed anomaly scans ("big anomaly screening") can also help assess whether the fetus is developing normally. Pregnant women should regularly attend prenatal checkups at the hospital throughout pregnancy to promote healthy births and optimal child development.
