Can anyone tell me how downs syndrome test is done? Is it a simple blood test of the mother?

Question

My doc wants to do a downs syndrome test. Does anyone know the process or if it's mandatory?if so in which week is it done?

Answer

There are several screening tests for Down's that only give you a statistical probability. The first is the nuchal translucency around 11-14 weeks which is a combo of an ultrasound where the nuchal folds on your baby are measured (area in the neck) and a blood test. The results give you a percentage chance. The second is the quad screening which is also a blood test combined with your 20 week ultrasound that also tests for probability of Down's and your results are in percentage chance. These screenings are not that accurate. If you fail either screening test your doctor will offer a genetic blood test (mine was called the Panorama) that is about 99% accurate and will also give you a percentage chance. If you fail that test then the amniocentesis is the only definitive test because it collects a sample directly from your baby. That's risky though and a lot of people opt out. There are also markers for Down's on sonograms that they look for, but of course reading sonograms can be very subjective and tricky. You can decline any screening test offered.

Answer

For me it was a simple ultrasound and prick of my finger for a couple drops of blood. Make sure you're insurance covers it, because it is not a mandatory test. I am a FTM and wish I would have known that before hand. I got stuck with $185 bill for the NT screening.

Answer

They can tell by via ultrasound or aminocentesis. Via ultrasound they will look for certain markers that are visable which can be signs on DS. But not a stable guarantee baby will have DS. There are risks when getting the aminocentesis. For myself, when asked for my daughter (7) son (15 mo) and son now at 37+5 I declined testing. To me the results wouldnt change how I feel about my child. My love would still feel the same, we decided not to know. With the grace of god, none of our children were dignoised with DS or anything else for that matter.

To answer your other question this test is not mandatory, it is optional. You can decline any test you want, if you choose too. Your OB will ask you if you would like testing done. And of course the sonogram technician will inform your OB if any of the DS markers have been seen. Not all babies have features of DS via sonogram only markers that indicate the possibility of DS. Some babies its obvious by features of the head and nose with no markers indicated.

If your worried, its normal. We all worry and we all pray that our child is born healthy and happy. Do not stress on this. Enjoy your pregnancy 😘

Answer

There's two. There's the NT which is done at 12-14 weeks and it's an ultrasound and blood test combined to check the chances. And then there's an amnio which is pretty risky. And me personally would decline having it done. Especially when the outcome doesn't change anything for me. I had the NT scan done, my doctor felt comfortable knowing, and I got an ultrasound out of it.

Answer

It isn't mandatory but highly recommended for those that are high risk.

Answer

Where I am they do your ultrasound and measure the fluid at the back of the neck around 13 weeks. My nuggets was 1.1 if it's over 3 I believe you have a higher chance your baby will have downs. I also had bloods done at 13 weeks and will have it done again at 16.

Answer

I remember it's a blood test but don't remember which week

Answer

It's usually around 20weeks they measure behind the baby's head and then the second test is a blood test. They combine both results and determine whether the baby has it or not.

Can anyone tell me how downs syndrome test is done? Is it a simple blood test of the mother?

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