The first trimester of pregnancy is an exciting time as you prepare for a life-changing experience. It’s also a time to focus on prenatal care and the health of your baby. One of the health checks to have at this stage of pregnancy is a first-trimester screening, which evaluates the risk of chromosomal issues like Down Syndrome and Trisomy 18.

For over three decades, Dr. Joseph Hazan and his skilled staff at Advanced OB-GYN Services have provided professional gynecological services such as prenatal care to women in the St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO, areas. They explain key points about first-trimester screenings.

Prenatal Care First-Trimester Screenings

The Serum Screen

Women can have this blood test from 9–13 weeks into pregnancy. Two proteins, free beta-hCG and PAPP-A, that typically are present in the blood during pregnancy will be sent to the laboratory for testing to detect chromosomal abnormalities.

First Trimester Ultrasound

An ultrasound exam taken from 11–13 weeks will take measurements to determine the gestational age of the baby, as well as monitor the heartbeat. While the baby is not fully formed, a general survey will be conducted for reassurance. A nuchal translucency (NT) screening will measure the amount of fluid behind the baby’s neck, and the results of the NT and serum screens will be used to calculate the risk of Down Syndrome and Trisomy 18.

For more information about first-trimester screening and other prenatal care, call Advanced OB-GYN Services at (636) 928-1800 for their St. Peters office or (314) 291-2140 for their Bridgetown location. Visit their website for more information about their valuable services.