For example, you may be further along in the pregnancy than previously thought, you may have twins, or the protein levels may be normal variations. These diagnostic tests are very safe and accurate. These tests do not eliminate the possibility the fetus may have birth defects, mental retardation, Down syndrome, trisomy 18, other chromosome abnormalities, or other abnormalities not detectable by these screening tests. Screening will not detect closed neural tube defects, some ONTD , open abdominal defects and pregnancies with perinatal complications. Multiple gestation screening is not as sensitive as singleton.
All reports rely on the accuracy of the patient s clinical information.
Earliest testing provides earlier options for follow-up diagnostic testing if needed. The decision whether to have the screening tests performed is your personal decision. If these tests show you have an increased risk, it does not mean a problem has been diagnosed, only that further evaluation of your pregnancy is indicated. The majority of women with an increased risk are found to have healthy babies after further testing.