Prenatal Testing

Undergoing prenatal testing can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience, as you learn about your baby�s health, and see and hear her movements for the first time.

Although the ultrasound - and in particular, the 3D ultrasound - is normally the first form of testing pregnant women think of, there are actually a number of prenatal tests you will be both required and offered to receive during your pregnancy. What types of testing you will require will depend on both your age and your pregnancy history.

Types of Tests Offered

Of course, there are certain tests that all mothers will be offered, such as glucose screening and alpha-fetoprotein. On the other hand, more specific types of testing � such as those for cystic fibrosis � are only performed if you are determined to have a family history of the disease.

Pregnant women over the age of 35 will likely be required to take chorionic villus screening and amniocentesis. After having an amniocentesis test, some women may be recommended for further testing involving fetal blood sampling.

Your health care practitioner and/or genetic counselor will help you decide which tests would be most beneficial. Because all of these tests have positive and negative aspects, it is important to be informed about them. Reading our informative articles can help you decide which tests are right for you.