Fetal screening tests are used to detect complications or abnormalities in a fetus during pregnancy. Tests range from minimally invasive to invasive, and can include blood tests, physical exams, and ultrasounds. False negatives and positives can occur, and further testing is usually recommended. Genetic counselors can provide information about implications and future pregnancies. Maternal screening is also important for detecting risks that could lead to complications.
A fetal screen is a diagnostic test used to check a fetus for signs of complications or abnormalities. There are a number of fetal screening tests available, and such tests are a routine part of prenatal care. An obstetrician can discuss testing options with expectant mothers and make testing recommendations based on medical history and other factors, such as the mother’s age. Some fetal screening tests are invasive and can be dangerous, while others are minimally invasive and pose no risk to the mother or fetus.
An example of fetal screening is a blood test of the mother. Some medical problems can be revealed with blood work, such as an Rh incompatibility between mother and fetus. Physical exams are also a form of fetal screen, as are ultrasound exams to visualize the fetus and uterus. An ultrasound can provide important information about how the fetus is lying in the uterus and can be used to check for obvious physical birth defects, as well as telltale signs of conditions such as Down syndrome. It is important to be aware that both false negatives and positives can occur and if a positive result is returned, further testing is usually recommended to confirm.
More invasive fetal screening options include procedures such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. These tests can be uncomfortable and can increase the risk of complications, and are only recommended when a doctor feels there is an increased risk of a condition that can only be diagnosed with this type of medical screening. This type of fetal screening can be used to check for genetic abnormalities to help women make pregnancy decisions and prepare for having a baby.
Fetal screening is conducted by an obstetrician and may involve input from genetic counselors and other medical professionals. If the test reveals a positive result for an abnormality, a genetic counselor can provide information about the implications for your pregnancy, as well as future pregnancies. In addition to talking to genetic counselors, parents can also speak to specialists who treat people with genetic disorders to learn more about those conditions.
Receiving fetal screening is only one aspect of prenatal care. Maternal screening is done to look for risks that could lead to complications, such as gestational diabetes, and pregnant women are also generally advised to observe a number of precautions to protect the developing fetus.
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