During the antenatal period, there are various tests available to offer reassurance that your baby is okay. Whilst they’re not compulsory, they could help put your mind at rest if you’re anxious about the health and growth of your baby. Here’s a rundown of the key antenatal tests, what’s involved and when they’re offered.
There are two main types of antenatal tests used – diagnostic and screening. “A diagnostic test, such as chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis, can confirm whether the baby has a congenital abnormality such as spina bifida or a genetic condition such as Down’s syndrome,” explained Mary Nolan, from the National Childbirth Trust.
“In contrast, a screening test assesses the baby’s risk of having a condition such as spina bifida or Down’s syndrome (such as 1 in 250), but it cannot say for certain that the baby is affected.” Between them, the two types of testing methods offer insight into what’s going on in the womb and how your baby is developing. Continue reading »
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