We want to make sure you and your baby get the best care possible. The healthcare providers at MaineHealth provide the pregnancy screenings and prenatal care that expectant moms need. Pregnancy screenings and prenatal tests give your provider the information needed to check the health of you and your baby.
What are pregnancy screenings and prenatal tests?
Pregnancy screenings also are known as fetal diagnostics. They let your provider learn the health of your baby before birth. Some health conditions can be treated before birth.
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First trimester screening tests for birth defects with an ultrasound of the fetus and maternal blood screening test. It is typically done between the 11th week and 13th week of pregnancy.
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Second trimester screening, also called the quad screen, is a blood test that checks for spina bifida, Down syndrome and trisomy 18.
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Genetic testing checks for certain genetic conditions such as Down syndrome.
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Pregnancy ultrasound uses sound waves to take a picture of your baby in the womb. Pregnancy ultrasounds check how your baby is developing in the womb.
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Amniocentesis is done in the second trimester and tests for genetic conditions
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Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is done in early pregnancy. A tiny tissue sample is taken from the placenta to check for genetic conditions.
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Cystic fibrosis testing checks to see if your baby has the gene for cystic fibrosis, a condition that clogs the lungs and digestive tract with mucus.
