Prenatal Screening and Diagnosis

Prenatal screening and diagnosis refer to tests performed during pregnancy to assess the health of the baby and identify potential genetic or developmental issues early on. Screening tests, such as blood tests and ultrasounds, help estimate the risk of conditions like Down syndrome. If a screening indicates a higher risk, diagnostic tests, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), can provide more definitive answers. These diagnostic tests involve sampling the amniotic fluid or placenta to analyze the baby's DNA. Early detection allows for informed decisions and better preparation for any necessary care or support.