Tests & Procedures
First Trimester
Compiled by The Cradle Staff
number of tests and procedures are available throughout your pregnancy in order to monitor your health and the health of your baby.
Your health care practitioner is there to inform you of your choices and to let you know about all the risks involved with each test. Make sure you fully understand all that is involved before you decided to proceed with any procedure.
GENETIC TESTING (& COUNSELING)
FIRST TRIMESTER SCREENING
ULTRASOUND
URINE SCREEN/ANALYSIS
CVS - CHORIONIC VILLUS SAMPLING
GENETIC TESTING (& COUNSELING)
(See also Do I Need Genetic Testing?)
If you did not do any genetic screening or testing before you conceived, you still have options.
Why would I have genetic testing done – or see a genetic counselor?
If your family and medical history raised any red flags, your doctor might recommend that you run additional tests, and/or speak with a genetic counselor. Or, if you are over 35, you might opt to speak with a genetic counselor regardless of your history.
Why wouldn’t I do it?
One reason why some people shy away from genetic testing is the expense.
Another reason not to have genetic testing done is if you have no intention of terminating your pregnancy under any circumstance. (However, you might still want to be aware of any risk factors in order to prepare yourself for any potential outcome.)
What does a genetic counselor do?
These genetics experts can recommend appropriate tests - based on your history - interpret the results and walk you through your options.
What is involved with genetic testing?
Most genetic testing is done through a simple blood test (from one or both of the parents). These tests can determine whether or not you carry genes for certain inherited disorders, raising the risk for passing along certain genetic disorders and diseases (including Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and Tay-Sachs disease).
Additional Notes
You may opt to do genetic screening and not the testing. You may want to test right away. Or, you may want to do a combination of screening and testing, depending on your history. The choice is yours. And remember, no test is 100% accurate.
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