Taking proactive steps during pregnancy can give you and your baby the best possible start. An Antenatal Screening Test helps identify potential health concerns or genetic conditions early on, ensuring timely support and peace of mind. Whether you’re looking for routine checks or specific screenings, My Health Assistant can connect you with trusted providers offering Antenatal Screening Tests near you.
Antenatal screening tests are non-invasive medical tests offered during pregnancy to assess the likelihood of certain genetic conditions, including Down’s syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards' syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau’s syndrome (Trisomy 13). These tests help expectant parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy and any further diagnostic testing if needed.
Early detection of chromosomal abnormalities.
Informed pregnancy planning and decision-making.
Access to specialized medical care if needed.
Emotional and psychological preparation for parents.
Combined First-Trimester Screening (10-14 weeks)
Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan: Measures fluid at the back of the baby’s neck via ultrasound.
Blood Test: Measures hormone levels associated with chromosomal abnormalities.
Risk Assessment: The results are combined to estimate the likelihood of Down’s, Edwards', or Patau’s syndrome.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) (From 10 weeks onward)
Highly accurate blood test analyzing fetal DNA in the mother’s bloodstream.
Detects Down’s, Edwards', and Patau’s syndromes with a higher accuracy than traditional screening.
Available privately or through healthcare providers in some regions.
Quadruple Test (14-20 weeks, if first-trimester screening was missed)
Measures four pregnancy-related hormones to assess the risk of Down’s syndrome.
If screening results indicate a high chance of a genetic condition, diagnostic tests may be recommended:
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) (10-14 weeks)
A small sample of placental tissue is taken for genetic analysis.
Amniocentesis (15-20 weeks)
A sample of amniotic fluid is tested for chromosomal abnormalities.
Both tests carry a small risk of miscarriage.
Obstetricians & Gynecologists (OB/GYNs)
Conduct ultrasounds, explain screening results, and discuss further testing options.
Midwives
Provide information about screening tests and support parents through the decision-making process.
Genetic Counselors
Offer guidance on screening results, genetic conditions, and potential pregnancy outcomes.
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists
Provide expert care for high-risk pregnancies and in-depth fetal assessments.
Primary Care Providers (GPs or Family Doctors)
Assist in referring patients for antenatal screening and follow-up care.
Psychologists & Counselors
Offer emotional and psychological support for parents navigating screening outcomes.
Low Chance Result: Indicates a low probability of a genetic condition but does not guarantee the absence of one.
High Chance Result: Suggests a higher likelihood of a condition, prompting further diagnostic testing.
Diagnostic Testing Confirmation: If a genetic condition is confirmed, parents receive comprehensive counseling and support options.
Discuss results with a healthcare professional.
Consider additional diagnostic tests if needed.
Seek emotional support and counseling if concerned about the results.
Learn about available medical and community resources for informed decision-making.
Antenatal screening tests for Down’s, Edwards', and Patau’s syndrome provide valuable insights for expectant parents. These tests help identify the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities early, allowing for informed medical decisions and emotional preparation. If you are expecting, consult a midwife, obstetrician, or genetic counselor to learn more about your screening options and what they mean for your pregnancy journey.
