Why It's Important to Have First-Trimester Screenings

Last updated 5 months ago

In addition to their annual gynecology exam, pregnant women will also undergo routine screenings to monitor the health and development of both mother and child. Talk to your obstetrician about the tests and screenings performed during pregnancy, and read on to learn more about first trimester screenings.

What is a First Trimester Screening?

A first-trimester screening is performed to provide early data about the baby’s and your health. The screening involves both a blood test and an ultrasonic exam, which together can reveal signs of genetic abnormalities, including Down Syndrome Trisomy 21 and 18 and various cardiac disorders. If any abnormalities are discovered, further diagnostic testing will be ordered.

Why are Screenings Performed?

There are several reasons pregnant patients should commit to undergoing first-trimester screenings. The tests are non-invasive and pose no risk to either the mother or baby.

Favorable results allow for peace of mind and can help the mother achieve a healthier physical and psychological state.
Screening can help doctors with early detection of any abnormalities, leading to early treatment options like fetal surgery.
An early diagnosis of an abnormality can also help parents to prepare financially and emotionally for caring for a baby with special needs.
The detection or development of high-risk problems can help doctors and parents together explore gestation options.

When Should I Get a First-Trimester Screening?

In most cases, a first-trimester screening is performed between the eleventh and fourteenth weeks of pregnancy. Your ob-gyn will recommend any necessary follow-up appointments, treatments, or diagnostic testing.

For more information about first trimester screenings, please contact WIH. At Women's Integrated Healthcare, our all-female staff combines the latest in technology in obstetrics and gynecology with compassionate care to provide for patients throughout the Grapevine, Keller and Alliance areas. For more information about the ob-gyn services and care we provide, please visit us online or call us today at (888) 870-5671.

Our patients come to us from around the DFW metroplex, including Grapevine, Keller, Alliance, Southlake, Highland Village, Lewisville, Irving, HEB, Arlington, Grand Prairie and the surrounding areas.