Recently, the number of babies born with Down Syndrome has been rising in Hong Kong. As a result, more parents are opting to undergo prenatal testing to determine if their child has the condition.
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What is Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21. It is the most common chromosomal disorder and occurs in people of all races and ethnicities. People with Down Syndrome have an increased risk of certain medical conditions, but they can live full, healthy lives with the proper support.
What Is Prenatal Screening?
Prenatal screening is a way to check for specific congenital disabilities or genetic conditions. It is important to remember that just because you have a positive result does not mean your baby has the disease. Most women who have positive results will go on to have healthy babies. But a positive impact can give you information to decide about your pregnancy and delivery.
What is the Process of Prenatal Screening for Down Syndrome?
Prenatal screening for Down syndrome is not diagnostic. That is, it cannot tell whether or not a fetus has Down syndrome. But it can give parents an idea of their risk.
There are two types of prenatal screening for Down syndrome: screening tests and diagnostic tests:
- Screening Tests
Screening tests estimate the risk of a fetus having Down syndrome. They are usually done early in pregnancy, before the 20th week. They are not invasive and do not carry any risks. Diagnostic tests
- Diagnostic Tests
Diagnostic tests are used to confirm or rule out the diagnosis of Down syndrome. They are usually done later in pregnancy, after the 20th week. They are invasive and carry a small risk of miscarriage.
Today, expectant parents have the option to receive prenatal screening for Down syndrome. This screening can be done through a blood test or an ultrasound. The blood test is usually done between the ninth and fourteenth week of pregnancy. The ultrasound is generally done between the eighteenth and twentieth week of pregnancy. If the screening comes back positive, it does not necessarily mean that the baby has Down syndrome. It just means the baby has a higher risk of Down syndrome.
The Essence of Prenatal Screening for Down Syndrome
Screening for Down syndrome is important because it can help parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy and their baby’s future. If a parent decides to continue the pregnancy, they can prepare for the challenges their child may face. If a parent chooses to terminate the pregnancy, they can do so with peace of mind knowing that they have made the best decision.
If you’re looking for a reliable and professional place to get Hong Kong Down’s Syndrome Test, Zenith Medical Centre is a perfect choice. Their team of experienced and qualified medical professionals will provide you with the highest quality of care, and they use the latest technology and equipment to ensure accurate results. They understand the importance of this test for you and your family, and they’ll do everything they can to ensure you’re comfortable and satisfied with the process.
