Common Prenatal Tests: When And Why Are They Needed?


Common Prenatal Tests: When And Why Are They Needed?
Spread the love

Prenatal tests are carried out during pregnancy to examine both the mother’s and the unborn child’s health. They can spot conditions that, if left untreated, can put a baby at risk for issues. In addition, these tests can assist medical professionals in identifying conditions like chromosomal abnormalities and birth defects. Some prenatal diagnostics are screening tests that can only rule out problems.

Others are diagnostic exams that can precisely determine whether a fetus has a particular issue. A diagnostic test may occasionally come after a screening test. You can ask about the risks and advantages of each test your gynecologist in Itefaq Hospital advises. Most expecting parents discover that prenatal examinations give them peace of mind while aiding in their readiness for the birth of their child. Keep reading to know about some common prenatal tests that you may go through during pregnancy and why they are done.

1. Ultrasound

This technology uses sound waves to make pictures of your baby and your organs. If your pregnancy is normal, you’ll have it at least thrice, once at the beginning to see how far along you are, and the second time around 18-20 weeks to check your baby’s growth and make sure their organs are developing properly. Third time in the last week of pregnancy to check fetal well being and its position.

2. Amniocentesis

In an amniocentesis, a tiny amount of amniotic fluid is taken from the region surrounding the fetus. The baby’s protein levels are then determined by testing the fluid, which may reveal any birth abnormalities. Genetic issues like cystic fibrosis or Tay-Sachs disease, as well as chromosomal defects like Down syndrome, can be detected in the cells of the amniotic fluid. Generally, an amniocentesis is offered to women who received an abnormal result on a screening test or to women whose babies are more at risk for birth defects and abnormalities. The test is performed between 15 and 18 weeks of pregnancy.

See also  Kelly Clarkson CBD Gummies: #1 Gummies Should You Buy or Not? Report Exposed

3. Chorionic villus sampling

CVS is a test in which a little portion of the placenta known as the chorionic villus is taken and analyzed to look for chromosomal or genetic problems in the unborn child. Women who had an abnormal result on a first trimester screening test or those who could be at higher risk are typically offered a CVS test. It is done earlier than an amniocentesis, between 10 and 12 weeks into the pregnancy.

4. Nonstress test

If the pregnancy is overdue or if there are other possible difficulties in late pregnancy, a non-stress test may be used. In this test, the woman is connected to a fetal monitor, to monitor how the heartbeat of the developing child changes in response to various movements. When the heart reacts abnormally to movement, it could mean that the infant is in distress.

5. Genetic testing

Prenatal tests can also be used by doctors to check for clues that your baby may be at risk for particular genetic diseases or birth abnormalities. They’re especially important for women who have a higher risk of having a baby with a birth defect or a genetic problem. You may be asked to go for genetic testings if you:

  • are older than 35.
  • have ever given birth to a premature baby or a child with a birth defect.
  • possess a hereditary condition, or one that runs in your family or the family of your spouse.
  • possess a health condition, such as lupus, diabetes, high blood pressure, a seizure disorder, or high blood pressure.
  • have ever experienced miscarriages or stillbirths.
  • have gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.
See also  Dr. Tariq Sayegh's tips for keeping your mouth healthy between dental visits

6. Biophysical profile

It is done if the pregnancy is overdue. It includes a non-stress test with electronic fetal heart monitoring and an ultrasound to assess your developing fetus’s heart rate, muscle tone, movement, breathing, and amniotic fluid levels.

Bottomline

Prenatal tests are helpful, but it’s important to know how to interpret what they find. A positive test result doesn’t always mean your baby will be born with a disorder. You’ll want to talk with your gynecologist in Fatima Memorial Hospital, midwife, or other health care provider about what the tests mean and what you should do once you have the results.


Spread the love

Sikander Zaman
writing is my profession, doing this from long time. writing for many online websites one of them is scoopearth