Types and importance of Anomaly Screening in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an important turning point in a woman's life and is a process full of excitement and curiosity for expectant mothers. It's important to have regular screenings and tests during pregnancy to make sure your baby is developing healthily. Anomaly scans during pregnancy are an important method used to detect possible health problems of your baby early and start treatment. In this article, we will discuss the different types of anomaly scans during pregnancy and when they should be done.

Dual Scan:
Dual screening in the first trimester is a test used to evaluate the risk of genetic diseases and congenital anomalies. This scan involves measuring certain proteins in the mother's blood and the thickness of the baby's neck. The results are used to determine your baby's risk for Down syndrome and other genetic abnormalities.

Triple Scan:
In addition to dual screening, triple screening, which is usually performed in the second trimester, is done by taking into account the maternal age as well as certain proteins in the mother's blood and the nuchal translucency of the baby. This test is used to further evaluate the risk of genetic abnormalities in your baby.

Quad Scan:
The quadruple screen is performed in a similar way to the triple screen, except that some hormones are additionally measured in the maternal blood. The quad scan is used to evaluate problems such as Down syndrome and spinal anomalies. It is usually done in the second trimester.

Advanced Ultrasound:
This scan is performed in the later stages of pregnancy and provides a detailed examination of the baby. Using ultrasound technology, the baby's organs, bones, heartbeat and other structures are observed. Advanced ultrasound helps to detect congenital anomalies early and enables appropriate treatment planning if necessary.

Amniocentesis:
Amniocentesis is one of the most accurate tests of genetic anomaly screening, but it also carries some risks. This test involves taking a sample of amniotic fluid to examine the baby's genetic material. It is usually done between the 15th and 20th weeks and is used to detect chromosomal abnormalities.

Anomaly scans during pregnancy are important to monitor your baby's health and detect potential problems early. Different types of testing, such as dual scan, triple scan, quad scan, advanced ultrasound, and amniocentesis, may be recommended by your providers to identify potential health problems for your baby and intervene as needed. Do not forget to have regular scans and follow the advice of your healthcare provider to keep your pregnancy healthy.