The first-trimester screening includes fetal ultrasound and blood testing for the mother. It is performed during the first trimester of pregnancy, between weeks 1 and 12 or 13. It can aid in determining the likelihood of the baby having specific birth abnormalities.
According to Dr. Theron Moodley, this comprises genetic abnormalities like Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and trisomies 18 or 13.
For him, Screening during the first trimester may include:
Fetal nuchal translucency ultrasound test (NT). Ultrasound is used to examine the back of the baby’s neck. It looks for excess fluid or thickening of the skin. These could indicate a flaw.
Blood tests are performed. The blood tests measure two chemicals prevalent in all pregnant women’s blood:
PAPP-A (pregnancy-associated plasma protein) (PAPP-A). During early pregnancy, the placenta produces this protein. Abnormal levels may indicate an increased chance of a chromosomal abnormality.
HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) (HCG). During early pregnancy, the placenta produces this hormone. Abnormal levels may indicate an increased chance of a chromosomal abnormality.
Fetal DNA testing without using cells. This examines the baby’s DNA in your blood. It looks for specific faulty chromosomes. It can also look for fetal sex chromosome abnormalities (X or Y). Cell-free fetal DNA screening doesn’t detect structural birth abnormalities like spina bifida or abdominal wall anomalies.
If your first-trimester screening results are abnormal, Dr. Theron Moodley suggests that you may require more testing to make a diagnosis. This could be chorionic villus sampling, amniocentesis, or another type of ultrasound.
Why would I require screening during the first trimester?
If the infant is screened during the first trimester, it can be determined if they have a congenital disability. Toward the end of the first trimester, all pregnant women are routinely provided with a screening test. Cell-free fetal DNA testing may well be administered to women at high risks, such as those over 35.
According to Dr. Theron Moodley, These screening tests may be ineffective in women with multiple pregnancies (twins or more).
What are the hazards of screening during the first trimester?
An ultrasound and blood tests are used in the first-trimester screening. These are low-risk procedures. However, if the tests are not performed at the appropriate time throughout the pregnancy, the results may be incorrect. This could happen, for example, if your due date were incorrectly calculated. This can cause you and your partner unnecessary anxiety and stress.
Dr. Theron Moodley maintains that the first-trimester screening is not perfect. It is merely a screening test to see whether there is an elevated chance of a congenital disability. It also helps determine whether you require additional tests or monitoring throughout your pregnancy.
False-positive results can indicate a problem when the infant is otherwise healthy. When a newborn has a health concern, false-negative findings suggest a typical result.
How should I prepare for a first-trimester screening?
There is no need for you to do anything unusual to prepare for the ultrasound or blood testing.
What takes place during a first-trimester screening?
According to Dr. Theron Moodley, the following tests are typically performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. They’re completed between weeks 10 and 14:
Ultrasound examination
To examine the infant, a transvaginal ultrasound is usually performed. A tiny ultrasound transducer is placed into the vagina during this procedure.
A blood test will be performed
Blood is drawn from a vein and then sent to the lab for analysis. Cell-free fetal DNA blood testing can begin as early as nine weeks of gestation.
What occurs following a screening in the first trimester?
After completing the tests, Dr. Theron Moodley holds that you will meet with your healthcare professional to discuss the results. The first-trimester screening isn’t 100% accurate and does not provide a diagnosis. If the results are unexpected, your doctor will recommend more testing to make a diagnosis. You will be offered genetic counseling and testing if necessary.
Dr. Theron Moodley recommends the following steps:
Before you consent to the test or process, make sure you understand:
The test or procedure’s name
Why are you undergoing the test or procedure?
What to expect from the findings and what they mean
The test’s or procedure’s risks and benefits
What are the potential adverse effects or complications?
When and where the test or operation will be performed
Who will perform the test or procedure, and what their qualifications are
What would happen if the test or procedure was not available?
Any other tests and procedures to consider?
When and how will you get the results?
Whom should you contact if you have any questions or problems after the test or procedure?
How much the test or operation will cost you.
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