Patient's question:
Hello doctor, before my daughter was born, I didn't know what Down syndrome was and never suspected I would have an unhealthy child. During pregnancy, the doctor recommended multiple times that I have a Down syndrome screening. Thinking that there had never been any unhealthy children in my husband's and my family, I felt that this Down syndrome screening was completely unnecessary and just an excuse for the hospital to make more money. Could you please tell me if I really need to do the Down syndrome screening?Doctor's answer:
Within 20 weeks, undergo a Down syndrome screening. Go to the hospital on an empty stomach for a blood draw (provided the doctor issues the referral report). First, complete this, and then wait until the mid-pregnancy stage, which is around four to five months later (doctors usually help confirm the timing). Then, do a glucose screening. On an empty stomach, drink glucose with water at home, go to the hospital, and have your blood drawn after one hour! We know that Down syndrome has a significant impact on children. If it is not treated in time or if the treatment method is incorrect, its progression is rapid, and it can bring great harm to the patient. Therefore, parents should pay close attention to their child's condition and seek timely medical treatment.