What Can Cause Down Syndrome In Pregnancy

Asians have long been revered for their genetic makeup, which is attributed to their strong cultural and historical ties. One of the most common conditions affecting children in Asia is Down Syndrome. Down Syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a condition in which an individual has an additional chromosome 21, resulting in physical and cognitive abnormalities.

While the condition is not exclusive to Asia, it is one that is widely studied within the region. Prenatal screening is one of the most effective methods of identifying the presence of Down Syndrome during the pregnancy of an expecting mother. The purpose of this blog post is to explore prenatal screening of Down Syndrome in the first and second trimesters and highlight the importance of detecting the condition early on.

First Trimester Screening

First trimester prenatal screening is performed during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The primary purpose of this screening is to detect the presence of chromosomal abnormalities and other fetal defects. The screening involves an ultrasound examination known as a nuchal translucency test, which assesses the size of the foetus and measures the fluid accumulation at the back of the neck. The test is followed by a blood test, which measures the hormone levels of the mother and the foetus. If the test results suggest that the foetus has a high risk of Down Syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities, further tests may be recommended.

Second Trimester Screening

Second trimester prenatal screening is performed at around 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. The primary purpose of this screening is to identify Down Syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities. The screening involves a blood test known as a quadruple screen, which measures the levels of hormones, including alpha-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin, in the mother's blood. The test also measures the levels of the protein estriol and inhibin A. The results of the test, together with the mother's age and other risk factors, are used to calculate the likelihood of Down Syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities.

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection of Down Syndrome is important because it enables the expecting parents to plan ahead and make decisions regarding the pregnancy. Early detection also enables the parents to obtain the necessary medical care and support required for the child from the early days of their life. Prenatal screening is especially important for expecting mothers who are over 35 years old, as they have a higher risk of having a child born with Down Syndrome.

Expecting parents can also consider undergoing genetic counselling to better understand the risks and implications of Down Syndrome. Genetic counselling offers a supportive and informative environment where parents can explore their options and make informed decisions.

Conclusion

Down Syndrome is a condition that affects many families in Asia. Prenatal screening is a critical method for the early detection of Down Syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities in foetuses. Early detection enables expecting parents to plan ahead and make informed decisions, as well as obtain necessary medical care and support for the child. Genetic counselling is another option that can help expecting parents make informed decisions. It is important for expecting parents to discuss their options with their healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes for their child.