Patient's question:
Now I am 12 weeks pregnant. Can I have the Down syndrome screening at 12 weeks? If the Down syndrome screening detects any problems with the fetus, what abortion procedures can be done at this stage? What precautions should be taken before the Down syndrome screening to ensure the accuracy of the test results?Doctor's answer:
The best time for a thorough Down syndrome screening is between weeks 14 and 19 of pregnancy. It is recommended to book an appointment at the hospital around week 12. It is best to undergo screening during the optimal window. Down syndrome screening primarily assesses the risk of the fetus having Trisomy 21. If the screening results indicate a high risk, further diagnosis through amniocentesis is usually required, followed by consideration of whether to proceed with induced abortion. Before the screening, it is advisable not to take oral medications, get adequate rest, and go to the hospital on an empty stomach.