A Guide to Pregnancy Screening Tests

Screening tests performed throughout pregnancy are used to evaluate your baby's health. It's important to know that these are "screening" tests — meaning they're designed to determine risk. An abnormal result doesn't necessarily mean there's a problem, so there's no need to panic.

First trimester screening (weeks 11-14): Nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound and blood tests (PAPP-A, free beta-hCG) are evaluated together. Risk is determined for Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and other chromosomal anomalies.

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test): An advanced test that analyzes fragments of the baby's DNA in the mother's blood. It can be done from week 10 onward and carries no risk of miscarriage since it's non-invasive. It is highly accurate. However, if a definitive diagnosis is needed, amniocentesis may also be considered.

2nd trimester screenings: Quad screen (weeks 15-22, ideally 16-18), detailed ultrasound (weeks 18-22 — evaluating all of the baby's organs, growth, and placenta position), glucose tolerance test (weeks 24-28). If you have any concerns about results, having a detailed conversation with your doctor and getting genetic counseling if needed is very valuable.