Prenatal diagnosis: essential to the health of the baby and mother
Written by:Prenatal diagnostic testing are essential to ensure the proper course of pregnancy and the health of the baby and mother. Ultrasounds are very important to detect congenital diseases.
Prenatal Diagnostic tests are performed and when
The first ultrasound recommended for all women during pregnancy is between weeks 11-13. On this visit should assess:- The number of fetuses- Calculation of the probability of chromosomal abnormalities, if the parents so desire- Assessment of fetal malformations that can be diagnosed in these weeks of pregnancy
Moreover, as experts say in Gynecology and Obstetrics , in the coming years we will see that this scan will be the basis of prediction and prevention of major diseases in pregnancy, such as the pre-eclampsia and preterm birth. This will help us to better management of pregnancy for obtaining better perinatal outcomes.
The second important ultrasound is that which occurs between 20-22 weeks, where the screening is performed fetal malformations.
The third ultrasound should be done between 32-36 weeks of pregnancy, for a new assessment of fetal anatomy and check for proper fetal growth.
Detectable congenital diseases with prenatal diagnosis
Congenital diseases that can be detected with prenatal diagnosis are many, including, among others: heart disease, malformations of the central nervous system, face, chest, abdomen, kidneys, upper and lower limbs.
The diagnosis of these malformations leads us to think that it is possible chromosomal or genetic syndrome, which is confirmed by fetal karyotype, after the previous embodiment amniocentesis from 16 weeks of pregnancy, or if chorionic villus sampling the diagnosis is made before. Importantly, these defects can be isolated.
Influence of maternal age in congenital diseases
The mother's age is important because we know that the older, higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities and maternal throughout pregnancy, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes complications.
Healthy living tips during pregnancy
The advice to follow during pregnancy to ensure the health of the baby and mother are very clear:- a healthy life- varied diet- exercise
