Prenatal screening: what parents should know
Purpose of screening tests, common options, questions to ask, and limits of results — not a substitute for genetic counseling.
Bầu Ăn Gì? Team · References ACOG, NHS
Purpose
Screening estimates risk for certain chromosomal and structural conditions; it is not diagnostic. Positive screens lead to further testing discussions.
Commonly offered (varies by country)
- First-trimester combined screening, NIPT cell-free DNA, anatomy ultrasound, glucose screening.
What you can do
- Ask what each test detects, false-positive rates, timing, and costs.
- Bring partner or support person to counseling visits.
Notes
Results can cause anxiety — genetic counselors help interpret choices. Declining tests is a valid informed choice in many systems.