Every pregnant couple wonders about the health of their unborn baby and the possibility of birth defects. A diagnostic test can tell whether or not the fetus actually has a birth defect like Down syndrome. A screening test estimates the chance of certain birth defects. This is performed by using a combination of maternal age, a blood test, and nuchal thickness. This detection rate is similar to or better than the detection rate of the screening test now commonly used in the second trimester.
Nuchal thickness is an ultrasound measurement of the skin on the back of the neck.
An increased nuchal thickness is associated with an increased risk for chromosome abnormalities and other birth defects in the fetus. The purpose of this screening is to evaluate the risk for Down syndrome and trisomy 18, in the first trimester, by using maternal age, nuchal thickness and maternal blood protein markers. All women less than 14 weeks pregnant. We will be requesting follow-up information regarding the outcome of your pregnancy. The age of the pregnancy will be determined by your physician, based initially on the first day of the last menstrual period or on an ultrasound evaluation.