Is the Down syndrome screening done by drawing blood?
Jul 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
In general, Down syndrome screening is primarily performed through blood tests and should be conducted under the guidance of a physician. The results of Down syndrome screening are typically categorized as low risk, borderline risk, or high risk. A low-risk result indicates a lower probability of the fetus having the condition, although not completely risk-free; borderline and high-risk results suggest the need for further diagnostic testing.
Generally, Down syndrome screening is primarily performed through blood tests, which need to be conducted under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Down syndrome screening is a prenatal examination method mainly used to assess the risk of the fetus developing Down syndrome. The serological screening component of Down syndrome screening mainly involves drawing venous blood from the pregnant woman to measure the concentrations of specific markers in the maternal serum, such as alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin, and unconjugated estriol. Abnormal levels of these markers may be associated with fetal chromosomal abnormalities. If a pregnant woman chooses serological screening, the Down syndrome screening is completed through blood draws.
Down syndrome screening results are generally categorized as low risk, borderline risk, and high risk. A low-risk result indicates a lower probability of the fetus having the condition, but not zero risk. Borderline and high-risk results suggest the need for further examinations. Pregnant women should maintain a calm mindset, rationally approach the screening results, and avoid excessive anxiety or panic.
