Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

I have heard its call an integrated test and that it has two parts. I just called the doctor to ask about it and they told me that they take blood and do the test between 16 and 20 weeks. and if the test comes out bad then i would have to get an amnio. Does this sound right. Did everyone have a two part test???? This one seems to only be a one parter??? So im confused.

Message edited 7/6/2006 2:59:50 PM.

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

Yes, this is the routine way of testing for downs.

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

I went for the NT(nuchal translucency) test which screens for Down's. It consists of a sonogram and a fingerstick blood test. This is usually done at the 12 week mark.

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

I am now thoroughly confused!
I think the downs is determined by the alfa feta protein test done at like 18 weeks and if it come back bad then they send you for amnio. I didnt think the nuchal was for that but I am so not sure right now.

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

I think that the nuchal is for downs and the AFP is for downs, spina bfida and other things.

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

I never had the 12 week test (don't get me started as to why we didn't - doctor error) but we did have the AFP test and then we needed to have an advanced sono followed by an amnio.

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

There are two tests for downs.

The NT test that is combined with the blood test- that is for Downs and Trisomy 18. This is done around 12 weeks or so. Not all doctors do this test (my cousin is a L&D nurse and they do not do it at their hospital).

Then there is the AFP test which tests for Downs and Spina Bifida which I also had. That's around 16-18 weeks

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

Re: Question about the test for Downs Syndrome???

Jen the First Ultrascreen is done at about 12 weeks - it is basically a sono using a more powerful machine then the one your dr has in his/her office. They measure the nose and neck for the first indications of down and they do a finger prick test. The combination of your age, how far along you are, the measurements on the sono and the blood work provide the doctor with a probability of your chances for having a baby with downs. Mine came back 1 in 7,000 - so the chances are small but nothing is guaranteed.

At 15 -20 weeks they do another blood test called an AFP test - this test is also optional and just another indicator of whether the baby could have downs or spina bifida (sp?). I did this as well and the results came back fine so the doctor said he didn't feel an amino was necessary, but of course if you want it they will do it.

I hope that helps!!!