Prenatal Genetic Screening

Decision Q&A'S

Are you over 35? Prenatal genetic screening is intended to screen those under 35. Many of our patients over 35 have used it to adjust their risk. This can be appropriate if the results of the screening test would affect your decision to do or not to do an amniocentesis. Patients who would do an amniocentesis regardless of screening results should NOT do screening.
If you are under 35 Would you do an amniocentesis if faced with a positive screening test? If not, prenatal screening may not be appropriate. Remember that the main reason for testing is to identify candidates for amniocentesis (or CVS).
Are you more than 13 weeks? Triple screen testing, done between 15 and 20 weeks is the best option. Other tests must be done between 11 and 13 weeks.
Are you concerned about cost? You should check with your insurance to see if they cover the newer tests: Nuchal Translucency and the Ultrascreen test.

Click here to see a table comparing the various methods of screening.