NT and 1st trimester screening

Hi everyone,

I was just wondering whether the nucheal translucency scan and the first trimester screening are routine tests done in all preg women or whether they are for high risk/multiple pregnancies only???

Thanks!!!!!

 

I think it almost depends on what practice you go to and where you're located.

It was standard for my OB (that's actually how we found out we were having twins ! ) But my good friend who lives in Mass, was really surprised I was getting an u/s (NT test) and said that it wasn't offered at her OB's office. And she lives fairly close to Boston. You'd almost think it'd be the other way around... ardon:

 

My understanding is that it is an optional test for women who might be more at risk based on age, etc. for down syndrome, trisomy 13, etc. Women over 35 are often recommended to have the test. It is a possible alternative to an amnio- based on the test results from the NT and 1st Triscreening (otherwise called integrated screening when combined) you may not choose to have an amnio. That is what I did. I had the integrated screening and opted not to have an amnio when the results indicated a low rate of risk for the various disorders.

Non of these tests are requirements. They are all optional. It was clear to me that this was the most comprehensive test that was non-invasive to the babies. The CTS and the Amno carried a higher risk of impact to the fetuses. I think the integrated screening is a good way to go, if you want to do testing at all. That is a personal choice.

 

My Dr.'s office called and he is sending me to get it done, so I wasn't sure if it's normal procedure or whether he thinks I'm high risk for any disorder. Is this better at detecting multiple pregnancies? Anyone know?!
Thanks.

 

QUOTE(Mom2B @ Mar 14 2008, 04:03 PM) [snapback]669490[/snapback]
Hi everyone,

I was just wondering whether the nucheal translucency scan and the first trimester screening are routine tests done in all preg women or whether they are for high risk/multiple pregnancies only???

Thanks!!!!!


[SIZE=12pt]The ACOG recommends them for all pregnant women regardless of age. The great thing about it is that it idividualizes your risk of having a baby born with Down's syndrome and trisomy 13 and 18. The blood test isn't as accurate for twins but it is helpful to the doctors in assessing their health. It can also help you decide if you want to do more invasive testing (eg. CVS or Amnio).[/SIZE]

 

My MW has offered with every pregnancy.. but I never had it done.

 

It depends.

But also be aware that all these tests (AFP included) are not the most accurate for multiples!! Because there is more than 1, it can throw the blood work off!