An ultrasound can give your doctor the most accurate look at your baby’s development and growth – not to mention what’s going on with you. Also, by early next trimester, an ultrasound might help you determine your baby’s gender. (Plus, most ultrasounds performed for medical reasons are covered by insurance.)
Why wouldn’t I do it?
When used correctly, ultrasound machines emit less energy than a fetal Doppler. However, if the ultrasound technician is not a physician or trained sonographer, it is wise not to risk exposure to an unknown level of sound waves.
URINE SCREEN/ANALYSIS What is it?
A urine sample which is then analyzed for the following:
Sugar levels: High levels could lead to gestational diabetes. Protein levels: High levels (accompanied by high blood pressure) could indicate preeclampsia. Ketone Levels: High levels could indicate dehydration or malnutrition (possibly from a bad case of morning sickness). Bacteria: Could indicate a urinary tract infection or other infection.
When is it performed? It is usually done at every visit during your pregnancy.
CVS – CHORIONIC VILLUS SAMPLING What is it? CVS tests a sample of tissue for chromosomal abnormalities. A catheter is placed through the cervix, and into the placenta, collecting a sample of villi (or cells) near the uterus. Sometimes it is done through the abdomen where a needle is inserted into the placenta, taking a sample of the tissue.
When is it performed? Between weeks 10-13, with week 11 or 12 being ideal.
What does it look for? This test determines any chromosomal abnormalities your baby may have, such as Down syndrome or Trisomy 13. It also has the ability to detect genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis.
Who should have the procedure? It’s offered to all women who will be 35 or older on their due date or if there have been genetic issues in their family’s history.
Why do it? Although CVS and amniocentesis both look for chromosomal abnormalities, CVS can be done 6-8 weeks earlier than an amnio, so if there are important decisions to be made, you can make them earlier in your pregnancy. Also, the results can come back a bit quicker (7-10 days, compared with the typical two-week wait for amnio results). Also, since you’re testing cells, you can find out the gender of your baby in the first trimester!
Why wouldn’t I do it? The risk for miscarriage is between 1 in 100 and 1 in 200, slightly higher than an amniocentesis. Also, it can’t detect neural tube defects such as spina bifida (which are not genetic).
Additional Notes
If you choose to go this route, be sure to choose a reputable doctor at a reputable medical center who has had plenty of experience with this procedure. Talk to your healthcare practitioner about any risks involved.
The following disorders or diseases were mentioned above:
Spina Bifida: Spina bifida is a permanently disabling birth defect, occurring in the first month of pregnancy when the spinal column doesn’t completely close.
Trisomy 13: Also known as Patau’s Syndrome or Trisomy D, this is the presence of an extra number 13 chromosome, which causes considerable mental and physical abnormalities and a high infant mortality rate.
Trisomy 18: Also known as Edwards Syndrome, this is the presence of an extra number 18 chromosome, causing several severe problems that lead to a high infant mortality rate.
Down Syndrome: The most common of chromosomal abnormalities, Down Syndrome (or Trisomy 21) is the result of an additional number 21 chromosome, affecting physical and mental development.
Cystic Fibrosis: A hereditary, progressive disease that affects the digestive system and lungs.
Tay-Sachs Disease: A genetic disorder resulting in neurological deterioration and early death in children. Tay-Sachs is seen in high numbers amongst those of Askhenazi Jewish or Eastern European descent.
Placenta Previa: A condition where the placenta is partially or fully covering the cervix.
