The first trimester screen is the earliest screen to assess your risk for Down syndrome and another chromosome abnormality called Trisomy 18. This screen uses a blood test and a specialized sonogram and can be done as early as 11 weeks. The blood test is similar to the standard AFP, triple, or quad screen offered to all pregnant women beginning at 16 weeks. The specialized ultrasound measures the thickness of the skin on the back of the fetus' neck (the nuchal translucency.) Our physicians and sonographers are specially trained and certified in this screening ultrasound test. The combined blood test and the nuchal translucency measurements from the ultrasound are sent to a specialized laboratory to determine your risk. Results are usually available in about one week or at your visit if you have done the Instant Risk Assessment and had your blood test done earlier.

Your obstetrician can refer you to our office for this test to be done around 11-12 weeks of your pregnancy.

For the earliest results with the first trimester screen, our practice works with the specialized laboratory, NTD Lab, to provide you with instant results when you come in for the nuchal fold ultrasound between 11 and 13 weeks. This can be done if you have your blood test done earlier by a finger stick at home, or your in obstetrician's office at least one week prior to your sonogram visit. Call our office at 301-279-6060, to inquire about this option early in your pregnancy.