When to check for Down syndrome screening
Down syndrome is a common chromosomal disorder that affects the normal development of babies. In order to identify pregnant women with Down syndrome as early as possible, Down syndrome screening is essential. So, when and how should Down syndrome screening be carried out during pregnancy? This article will introduce information related to Down syndrome screening from four aspects.
1. Down syndrome screening time
Down syndrome screening is usually performed around the 13th to 14th week of pregnancy, and the 15th to 20th week is also a more appropriate time range. Generally speaking, if the pregnancy exceeds 20 weeks, the sensitivity of Down syndrome screening will decrease significantly. In addition, doctors will make personalized recommendations based on personal circumstances and medical history. For high-risk pregnant women, it is recommended to be screened for Down syndrome before pregnancy to detect the problem as early as possible.
2. Down syndrome screening method
Common screening methods for Down syndrome include blood screening and ultrasound screening. Blood screening is done by testing blood samples from pregnant women to assess their risk of Down syndrome. Ultrasound screening uses ultrasound technology to detect whether the fetal neck translucency and nasal bones are normal, as well as the content of Down syndrome-related substances in the amniotic fluid. If screening indicates a possible Down syndrome, your doctor will usually recommend further non-invasive prenatal genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis.
3. Notes
Pregnant women need to pay attention to some things when undergoing Down\’s syndrome screening. First of all, you need to choose a regular and qualified hospital and doctor for examination. Secondly, you need to perform the examination according to the doctor\’s instructions and cooperate with the operation throughout the process to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable. In addition, for high-risk pregnant women, screening for Down syndrome before pregnancy is recommended. If the Down syndrome screening result is abnormal, don’t panic too much. You need to consult a professional doctor in time for further diagnosis.
4. The significance of Down syndrome screening
Down syndrome screening during pregnancy is of great significance. On the one hand, it can detect fetal Down syndrome in advance and take timely intervention measures; on the other hand, it can also rule out the possibility of fetal Down syndrome, bringing peace of mind to pregnant women and parents. In addition, Down syndrome screening during pregnancy also helps to understand the development and health status of the fetus, which is of great significance to the health management of pregnant women and fetuses.
Summary
Down syndrome screening during pregnancy is a very important examination item, which is crucial to the health of the fetus and pregnant woman. Down\’s syndrome screening is usually performed between 13 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. Common screening methods for Down\’s syndrome include blood screening and ultrasound screening. When conducting screening, you need to pay attention to choosing a regular hospital and professional doctors, and strictly follow the doctor\’s instructions. If the screening results are abnormal, you need to consult a doctor promptly and take appropriate measures. In short, Down syndrome screening during pregnancy is of great significance, and it is recommended that suitable pregnant women perform it as early as possible.
