A–Z Glossary

Prenatal diagnostic test

Diagnostic testing uses procedures to provide more definitive information about certain fetal conditions, though some procedures may carry risks.

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Amniocentesis risks and benefits

Amniocentesis risks and benefits

What amniocentesis involves Amniocentesis is an invasive prenatal diagnostic procedure in which a clinician removes a small sample of amniotic fluid from the uterus using a thin needle, usually under continuous ultrasound guidance. The fluid contains fetal cells and biochemical substances that can be analyzed for chromosomal conditions, selected genetic disorders, fetal infection, and, in […]

Genetic screening tests explained

Genetic screening tests explained

What genetic screening means Genetic screening is a structured way to estimate whether a person, pregnancy, fetus, embryo, or newborn has an increased chance of a genetic condition. In pregnancy care, screening is often offered to people who have no symptoms and no known family history. This is what makes screening different from targeted genetic […]

Combining multiple diagnostic methods

Combining multiple diagnostic methods

Why one test is often not enough Diagnostic reasoning in pregnancy starts with the recognition that no single method is perfect. A home urine pregnancy test, a quantitative blood test, and an ultrasound each answer a different question. One detects hormone levels, another estimates whether values are rising appropriately, and another evaluates the presence, location, […]

Second trimester preparation and first trimester planning checklist

Second trimester preparation and first trimester planning checklist

Use the first trimester to build your care foundation The most useful first trimester planning checklist starts with establishing care. If you have not already done so, schedule your first prenatal appointment and prepare a concise medical history before you go. Include prior pregnancies, miscarriages, cesarean delivery, preterm birth, hypertension, diabetes, thyroid disease, depression, anxiety, […]

Following Up on Newborn Screening Results

Following Up on Newborn Screening Results

What Newborn Screening Is Designed to Do Newborn screening is a population-based public health service intended to identify infants who may be at increased risk for selected conditions. The exact panel varies by country, state, province, or territory, but programs commonly include blood-spot screening for inherited metabolic, endocrine, hemoglobin, or other disorders. Many locations also […]

Month 3 of pregnancy: end of first trimester and key milestones

Month 3 of pregnancy: end of first trimester and key milestones

Where month 3 fits in pregnancy dating Pregnancy dating can be confusing because it is measured from the first day of the last menstrual period, not from the date of conception. This means that by the time a pregnancy test is positive, a person is often already considered about 4 weeks pregnant. According to standard […]