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The California Prenatal Screening Program
The activities of the Prenatal Screening Branch (PNS) are focused on detecting birth defects during pregnancy. PNS is working to assure Prenatal screening services and follow-up services where indicated are available to all pregnant women in California. The PNS administers the Prenatal Screening Program, in the past known as the “Expanded AFP Program”. Prenatal screening currently offers three types of screening tests to pregnant women in order to identify individuals who are at increased risk for carrying a fetus with a specific birth defect.

Why is an ultrasound exam so important in pregnancy?

During the first trimester, a fetal ultrasound accurately assigns the gestational age of a pregnancy.  It is also the time when the health of an early pregnancy can be evaluated with the measurement of the nuchal translucency – a precise measurement of a “translucent” area on the back of the developing fetal neck (performed between 11-14 weeks).  This measurement, when performed in combination with a first trimester and second trimester blood test, provide a risk assessment for the most common chromosome abnormalities

During the second trimester, a detailed anatomic survey rules out most birth defects when done by a specialized perinatal center.  During that exam, stringent parameters are followed, established by the American Institute in Ultrasound Medicine (AIUM) regarding anatomic structures that must be evaluated – assuring to the limitation of ultrasound itself, you baby is thoroughly examined.

During the third trimester, a fetal ultrasound evaluates the size of the developing baby and identifies pregnancies with abnormal growth.  In the event of a growth abnormality, advanced imaging techniques including evaluation of blood flow velocities and wave forms through specific blood vessels in the brain,  heart, liver and umbilical cord can be undertaken.  In addition, biophysical parameters such as fetal breathing, tone and movement can also be used to determine the health of the developing baby in combination with a fetal non stress test.

 

 

FACTS:

Why is an ultrasound exam so important in pregnancy?

— During the first trimester, a fetal ultrasound determines the health of an early pregnancy with the measurement of the nuchal translucency.

— During the second trimester, a fetal ultrasound rules out most birth defects with a comprehensive evaluation of the fetal anatomy.

— During the third trimester, a fetal ultrasound evaluates the size of the developing baby and identifies pregnancies with abnormal growth.

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