Patient's question:
We are twins, and we underwent IVF. At 22 weeks, I had a 4D ultrasound, which was normal. At 12 weeks, the NT scan was also within the normal range. At 16 weeks, the NIPT was normal as well. However, when I had the 4D ultrasound, the doctor said to have another second screening at 28-32 weeks. What is a second screening? Is it enough just to have a 4D ultrasound? I am 27 years old this year.Doctor's answer:
Generally, at 28 weeks, a comprehensive detailed ultrasound examination is performed to check the fetal growth and development. The content of the examination varies at each stage. The NT examination checks the transparency of the nuchal fold, and the Down syndrome screening checks the risk of having a child with Down syndrome. Systematic prenatal examinations must be done during pregnancy. At 28 weeks of pregnancy, the major organs of the fetus have largely developed. A comprehensive detailed ultrasound examination is performed. However, due to factors related to the umbilical cord, there may still be a possibility of fetal abnormalities later. Therefore, prenatal examinations should be conducted regularly during pregnancy.