What to do if the Down syndrome screening is not passed
Jul 21, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
The failure of Down syndrome screening may be caused by advanced maternal age, gestational age calculation errors, chromosomal abnormalities, fetal structural malformations, or gestational diabetes. It is usually managed through further examinations, close monitoring, and targeted interventions. If the pregnant woman is over 35 years old, the quality of her oocytes declines, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, which may lead to a failed Down syndrome screening.
Failure in Down syndrome screening may be caused by advanced maternal age, gestational age calculation errors, chromosomal abnormalities, fetal structural malformations, or gestational diabetes. Usually, it can be managed through further examinations, close monitoring, and targeted interventions. If abnormalities are detected, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Advanced Maternal Age: Women over 35 years old experience a decline in egg quality, increasing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, which may lead to failure in Down syndrome screening. Amniocentesis or non-invasive DNA testing is recommended to confirm fetal chromosomal status for early decision-making.
2. Gestational Age Calculation Error: Inaccurate estimation of gestational age can affect the evaluation of screening indicators, resulting in failed Down syndrome screening. The gestational age should be reconfirmed via ultrasound, and screening results reassessed based on accurate gestational age to avoid misjudgment due to errors.
3. Chromosomal Abnormalities: Chromosomal number or structural abnormalities such as trisomy 21 or trisomy 18 may cause failed Down syndrome screening, often accompanied by risks like fetal growth restriction and multiple organ malformations. Follow medical advice to undergo amniocentesis for definitive diagnosis. If abnormalities are confirmed, appropriate management options should be considered based on family circumstances under a doctor's guidance.
4. Fetal Structural Malformations: Structural abnormalities such as congenital heart disease or gastrointestinal malformations may affect screening indicators, leading to failed Down syndrome screening. These abnormalities can often be detected through ultrasound. Pregnant women are advised to undergo further systematic ultrasound examinations to identify the location and severity of malformations, assess fetal prognosis, and consider intrauterine intervention or postnatal surgical treatment if necessary.
5. Gestational Diabetes: Poorly controlled blood sugar levels in pregnant women with gestational diabetes may affect fetal development, indirectly causing abnormal Down syndrome screening results. These are often accompanied by symptoms such as elevated maternal blood glucose and rapid weight gain. It is recommended to control blood sugar under medical guidance using medications such as insulin injections, metformin hydrochloride tablets, and vitamin B1 tablets, while also adjusting diet and exercise, and closely monitoring fetal development.
In daily life, pregnant women should maintain regular作息 (作息 translates to作息 in English but may refer to作息 habits or routines), avoid exposure to harmful substances, and undergo regular prenatal checkups. If Down syndrome screening is failed, it's important to remain calm and actively cooperate with further examinations to clarify the fetal condition and ensure maternal and fetal safety.
