Integrated prenatal screening is a series of tests that are done during pregnancy. The tests tell you what the chances are that the fetus has certain birth defects or genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome or spina bifida. The screening can find out if the fetus is at higher risk than normal for problems. But it can't tell you for sure that there is a problem.
The screening is done in two stages at two different times during the pregnancy. The first stage of tests is done in the first trimester, between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. The second stage is done during the second trimester, between 15 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.
You will get the results after the second stage of tests is done.
Why are these tests done?
These tests are done to find out the chance that the fetus has certain birth defects or genetic conditions.
What are the tests?
First-trimester screening tests
These tests are done between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy.
Nuchal translucency test. This test uses ultrasound to measure the thickness of the area at the back of the fetus's neck. An increase in the thickness can be an early sign of certain birth defects or genetic conditions.
Blood test. This test measures the amount of a substance in your blood called pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A).
Second-trimester screening test
This test is done between 15 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.
Quadruple (quad) serum screen test. This blood test checks the amounts of four substances in your blood. It checks the levels of:
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG).
Unconjugated estriol, or uE3.
Hormone inhibin A.
What do the results mean?
If your screening results are "positive," it doesn't mean that the fetus for sure has a birth defect or genetic condition. But it does mean that the fetus is more likely to have certain birth defects or genetic conditions. In that case, your doctor may want you to have another test to make sure. That test is called a diagnostic test.
If the screening results are "negative," it means that the fetus is less likely to have a birth defect or genetic condition. But it doesn't guarantee that you will have a normal pregnancy or a healthy baby.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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