Down syndrome screening is an important test during pregnancy. It involves measuring the levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the mother’s serum, combined with the due date, weight, and gestational age at the time of blood draw, to estimate the risk of the fetus having Down syndrome. The best time for the test is between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy. Results are typically available within one week after the test. If the initial screening shows a higher risk, further detailed examination is needed for a definitive diagnosis. Down syndrome screening can detect about 60-70% of babies with Down syndrome.
At 34 weeks, the fetus was diagnosed with intracranial hemorrhage, accompanied by umbilical vein thrombosis. The parents inquired about the cause of the hemorrhage and whether hemolysis or chromosomal abnormalities might occur.
Around three months into pregnancy, doctors usually recommend a Down syndrome screening, and before this, an ultrasound is required to confirm the fetus’s development and the location of the gestational sac.
Drinking alcohol daily without knowing you are pregnant can potentially have adverse effects on the fetus, especially during the early stages of pregnancy.
If a Down syndrome screening report shows high risk, does it mean the fetus might have a chromosomal abnormality?
Moderate consumption of pear water during pregnancy is harmless to health, but attention should be paid to balanced nutrition and avoiding excessive supplementation.
The patient inquires about the possibility of successful pregnancy again after experiencing a spontaneous abortion, and the doctor recommends undergoing relevant checks and providing guidance.
Down syndrome screening includes blood tests, but some hospitals also require additional checks such as liver function tests and urine tests. What precautions should be taken before the examination?
What is the impact of low AFP indicators in Down syndrome screening on infant health? How can it be remedied?
Down syndrome screening is an essential step to assess the risk of fetal Down syndrome. Understanding the process and preparation is crucial for expectant mothers.
