Routine prenatal tests for baby's health commonly include:
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Alpha fetoprotein (AFP)
AFP s produced by the baby’s liver and is present in the mother’s blood. AFP can help determine:
- Due date – AFP levels change during pregnancy
- Multiple births – more babies produce higher levels of AFP
- Risk of a genetic disorder like Down syndrome
- Risk of a birth defect like neural tube defect, which can affect the development of the baby’s spine and brain
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Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses sound waves to get a picture of your baby. It’s safe and non-invasive. You’ll likely have at least one ultrasound during pregnancy, but some women may have more. Ultrasound can be used to:
- Confirm your pregnancy
- Determine your due date
- Let you know if you’re expecting more than one baby Evaluate the baby’s growth
- Determine gender
- Examine the placenta and amniotic fluid
- Screen for birth defects
- Guide a needle for tests that require a needle to be inserted into the uterus
- See how baby is positioned before delivery
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Amniocentesis
This test uses a needle to remove some of the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby. Generally, it’s only done when there’s a reason to believe the baby may be at a higher risk of illness or birth defect. It might be done if:
- There’s a history of a genetic condition in your family
- You or your partner are carriers of a genetic condition
- You were previously pregnant with a baby that had a genetic disorder
- Your ultrasound showed a possible illness or birth defect
- You’re 35 or older
- You have too much amniotic fluid
- You need to consider an early delivery and must know if the baby’s lungs are ready
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Chorionic villus sampling
The placenta shares the baby’s genetic makeup and can be tested. It’s generally done between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. It carries some risks, but it’s the earliest testing that can confirm a genetic condition.