First Trimester Screening Test For Early Pregnancy Stage

The First Trimester Screening Test is a prenatal evaluation performed during early pregnancy to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, in the developing fetus. It typically involves a combination of a maternal blood test and an ultrasound to provide important information to expectant parents and healthcare providers.

First Trimester Screening Test

Here are the basic details of the First Trimester Screening Test.

*First Trimester Screening Test Price range may vary as per location, lab type, and procedure of lab test.

First Trimester Screening Test Means

The First Trimester Screening Test is a prenatal assessment conducted during early pregnancy.

• It combines a maternal blood test and ultrasound to evaluate the developing fetus.
• The purpose is to estimate the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, including Down syndrome.
• This test provides crucial information for expectant parents and healthcare providers.
• It's typically performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy.
• Results help guide decisions about additional diagnostic testing or monitoring.

First Trimester Screening Test Purpose

The purpose of the First Trimester Screening Test is to:

• Evaluate the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
• Assess fetal health during early pregnancy.
• Aid in informed decision-making for expectant parents.
• Identify potential issues, such as Down syndrome.
• Offer a non-invasive, early pregnancy assessment.
• Guide further diagnostic testing or intervention.

First Trimester Screening Test Preparation

Here is the basic preparation for the First Trimester Screening Test.

Before Test

• No special preparation is needed before the test.
• Be prepared to provide information about your medical history and the first day of your last menstrual period.

During Test

• The test typically involves a maternal blood draw and an ultrasound, which are generally well-tolerated.
• You may need to expose your abdomen for the ultrasound.

After Test

• There are usually no post-test restrictions.
• Await the results and discuss them with your healthcare provider to determine any necessary follow-up or additional tests.

First Trimester Screening Test Procedure

Here is the basic First Trimester Screening Test Procedure.

• The First Trimester Screening Test involves two components: a maternal blood test and an ultrasound.
• The maternal blood test measures specific markers in the blood, such as pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
• The ultrasound, typically performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, measures the nuchal translucency (a clear space at the back of the baby's neck).
• The healthcare provider collects the maternal blood sample through a simple blood draw.
• The ultrasound involves using a probe on the abdominal area to visualize and measure the nuchal translucency.
• Results are typically available shortly after both components of the test are completed.
• Based on the results, your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you and may recommend additional testing or provide reassurance regarding the pregnancy.

First Trimester Screening Test Result

First Trimester Screening Test results are reported as a risk score or likelihood of a chromosomal abnormality, typically expressed as a fraction (e.g., 1 in 1,000).

• A higher numerator indicates a higher risk (e.g., 1 in 100) of a chromosomal abnormality.
• A lower numerator (e.g., 1 in 10,000) suggests a lower risk.
• The denominator represents the average risk in the general population.
• Your healthcare provider will explain the results, and you can discuss any concerns or potential follow-up tests.
• The results help assess the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, but they do not provide a definitive diagnosis.

First Trimester Screening Test Normal Result

Here is the normal result of the First Trimester Screening Test

First Trimester Screening Test Interpretation

Here is the Interpretation of the First Trimester Screening Test.

First Trimester Screening Test High Risk

Here are potential causes for high risk results on a first-trimester screening test.

First Trimester Screening Test Low Risk

Here are potential causes for low risk results on a first-trimester screening test.

Specimen Requirements For First Trimester Screening Test

Here are the specimen requirements for the First Trimester Screening Test.

First Trimester Screening Test is Safe?

The First Trimester Screening Test, a combination of a maternal blood test and ultrasound, is safe.

• Both components of the test are non-invasive and well-tolerated by expectant mothers.
• The benefits of early pregnancy assessment in identifying potential issues like chromosomal abnormalities outweigh the minimal risks.

When Do You Get First Trimester Screening Test Results? 

• Results of the First Trimester Screening Test are typically provided shortly after both components of the test (blood test and ultrasound) are completed.
• The reporting time may vary by healthcare provider and laboratory.

First Trimester Screening Test Limitation

Here is the basic limitation of First Trimester Screening Test.

• Screening, not diagnostic: The test estimates the risk of chromosomal abnormalities but doesn't provide a definitive diagnosis.
• False positives: It may suggest a higher risk than actual, leading to unnecessary concern and follow-up testing.
• False negatives: Some affected pregnancies may not be identified, resulting in missed cases.
• Variability: Factors like maternal age and obesity can affect the accuracy of risk assessment.
• Follow-up needed: Abnormal results require additional diagnostic tests for confirmation.

First Trimester Screening Test Risk Factors

Here are some of the risk factors of the First Trimester Screening Test.

• Estimates risk, not a diagnostic tool.
• Potential for false positives and false negatives.
• Variability in risk based on maternal age and other factors.
• Abnormal results may lead to unnecessary concern.
• Follow-up diagnostic tests required for confirmation.

Doctor Recommendations After First Trimester Screening Test Result

 Here are the Doctor's recommendations or consult a specialist after the First Trimester Screening Test.

First Trimester Screening Test Price

Here are the estimated First Trimester Screening Test Prices in India with different top cities:

*First Trimester Screening Test Price are approximate and vary depending on a specific laboratory or healthcare facility.

Summary

Overall, First Trimester Screening Test aids in early assessment of fetal health, estimating chromosomal abnormality risk, and informing crucial decisions during pregnancy. Also check Drlogy Test for detailed information about all medical tests for patients, doctors, scholers and medical students.

Reference

• First Trimester Screening Test - Wikipedia [1].
• First Trimester Screening Test - NIH [2].