Obstetrical Care
Genetic Screening Options
Screening Tests
Diagnostic Tests, done after abnormal screening tests:
- Sequential Screen (starting at 11 weeks) - This test combines maternal age, fetal ultrasound findings, and protein levels in maternal blood to assess the risk of trisomies with chromosome 21 (Down Syndrome) and 18, and open neural tube defects.
- Cell Free Fetal DNA (starting at 10 weeks) - This test analyzes the DNA of the fetus in the mother’s blood to assess the presence of too many or too few chromosomes. Specifically it looks at chromosomes 21, 18, 13, and the sex chromosomes.
Diagnostic Tests, done after abnormal screening tests:
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS). Starting at 10 weeks. This test obtains cells from the placenta to analyze for chromosome anomalies.
- Amniocentesis. Starting at 15 weeks. This test obtains fluid from the amniotic sac to analyze for chromosome anomalies.
