Prenatal Screening And Diagnostic Tests For Trimester 2

Tests Are Important

Prenatal testing, such as screening and diagnostic examinations, can provide important details about the health of the baby you are expecting. These laboratory test help to identify the advantages and risk factors.

There is a lot of anticipation throughout pregnancy, and you might experience pressure, tension, and anxiety occasionally. You could be concerned about the health of the child you are expecting.

Although many babies are healthy at birth, it's important to be aware of your options for learning more about the condition of your newborn. Let us discuss the importance of the different Prenatal testing.

Prenatal Tests

These tests are performed during pregnancy to evaluate your health and to judge the possibility of a genetic problem in the baby.

Types Of Prenatal Tests

Prenatal tests are categorized as:

• Screening tests: These tests measure the likelihood of a problem.
• Diagnostic tests: These tests confirm the problem in the baby.

What Tests Are Done During The Second Trimester?

The news of being pregnant gives immense joy to you and your partner. The tests may give you clues regarding any health concern you or your baby might have, or they may even diagnose a problem. Different tests that are done during the second trimester of pregnancy, from week 13 to week 26 are:

• Physical examination: This includes breast and pelvic examination, measurement of blood pressure, and monitoring your weight.
• Complete blood count: To check the count of blood cells and anaemia.
• Blood group and Rh factor: The doctor estimates your blood type and if you are Rh-positive or Negative. If you are Rh-negative and your partner is Rh-positive, your blood may develop antibodies against the foetal blood.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound is done between 18 to 22 weeks of gestation, to estimate any major defect in the abdomen, limbs, heart, face, or brain or to ensure proper development of the baby.
• Quad or Quadruple blood test or multiple marker test or AFP test: your doctor may perform this test between 15-22 weeks. It screens for Down’s syndrome, neural tube defects (NTDs) such as Spina Bifida, Down Syndrome, or any other genetic or chromosomal defect in the infant. This test measures the level of AFP in the mother’s blood. Alpha-fetoprotein or AFP is a protein formed by the liver of a foetus, and travels across the placenta into the mother’s blood.
• Glucose Test: This is done to diagnose if you have gestational diabetes. Some women are at an increased risk of diabetes during pregnancy, which usually resolves after delivery, but may harm the baby during pregnancy. You will be made to drink a sugary drink and your blood glucose levels will be tested after an hour. Abnormal Levels of blood sugar indicate that you have gestational diabetes. The high glucose levels in the blood cause deleterious effects on the baby. Consult your doctor regarding the treatment required in that case.
• Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): In this method, small sample of cells is taken from the placenta and investigated.
• Amniocentesis or Percutaneous umbilical cord sampling (PUBS) or foetal Blood Sampling Umbilical Vein Sampling or Cordocentesis: This test evaluates foetal blood from the umbilical cord and is usually done after 18 weeks of gestation.
• Combined first and second-trimester screening: The results of the tests of both trimesters are combined for more accurate screening.

Is There Any Risk Associated With The Screening Tests?

Usually, these screening tests are not risky. However, if the tests are performed late, it might affect the results. This can bother you and your partner. Sometimes the tests or the results can make you anxious or can even lead to miscarriage. A few tests may cause pain and discomfort.

Accuracy Of The Prenatal Tests

The tests are not 100% accurate. The results may vary from test to test. Your doctor advises you these tests to monitor your pregnancy and to estimate whether your child has a genetic defect.

How Test Results Can Affect You?

These tests evaluate your and your baby’s health during pregnancy. The test results can make you calm and assured about your pregnancy journey. However, if the results of the test detect a birth defect in the baby, you might be distressed. You can be confused, about whether to continue the pregnancy or not. On the positive side, the result can prepare you to welcome your little one into the world.

In conclusion, prenatal screening may be recommended by your healthcare provider to evaluate your health and to assess whether the baby is growing well. Consult your healthcare provider to know which tests are suitable for you. It is your decision to go for these tests or not.

Conclusion

Prenatal tests during the second trimester are crucial for assessing the health of both mother and baby. They provide valuable information that can guide expectant parents in preparing for the birth of their child. Although the tests come with certain risks and are not foolproof, they are a significant aspect of prenatal care. Ultimately, the choice to proceed with these tests rests with the parents, in consultation with their healthcare provider.