First Trimester Screening

The screening shows chromosome abnormalities such as Down Syndrome, Trisomy 13, and Trisomy 18. First trimester screening is non-invasive and will give a patient her risk of having a child with a disability. 

By undergoing a first trimester screening, the doctor can also see the thickness of the baby's neck. This indicates if the baby is going to be born with a disability. The results are available when the sonogram is completed. 

Maternity 21 is a second test that can be completed to receive a clearer read on how likely her baby has a disability. 

In addition to screening for these abnormalities, a portion of the test (known as the nuchal translucency) can assist in identifying other significant fetal abnormalities, such as cardiac disorders. The screening test does not detect neural tube defects.