The invasive test is done after discussion about the associated risks. The vast majority of results are low risk however in the event of a high risk result, or if you want complete reassurance that your baby is not affected by Down’s Syndrome, then we are able to offer an invasive test, which can be a CVS (chorionic villus sampling) where a small sample of placenta is taken under local anaesthetic or an amniocentesis test (usually after 16 weeks gestation) where a sample of amniotic fluid is taken from around the baby. If the blood sample is taken the day of the scan the results should be available within 48 hours if the blood sample is taken a day or two before, the result can be given on the day of the scan. The other component of this screen is the assessment of two pregnancy hormones, which are obtained from a blood sample taken on the day of the scan or a day or two previously. ![]() Risk assessment for chromosomal defects - The 11-13 week scan is an important part of the risk assessment for chromosomal defects, such as Down’s Syndrome. We will also spend time looking at the placenta, where it lies within the uterus and where the cord is inserted, as this may have implications for the pregnancy later on. It is at this scan major abnormalities can sometimes be identified. A developing spine, kidneys and bladder can all be seen, and will be shown to you at the time of the scan. Early anatomy assessment - At this stage limb development has begun, we are able to record a normal heartbeat and, depending on the gestation, the beginnings of the development of a normal brain, skull, heart and lungs can be seen. This scan also confirms the date of delivery of the baby to within 5 days, so accurately dates the pregnancy. The chance of miscarriage at this stage is about 2%. Dating and confirmation of viability - In most women this is the first routine scan that confirms that there is a developing baby within the uterus. It is sometimes referred to as the 11-13 week scan and it allows for detailed assessment of the developing baby and has a number of benefits: That is usually between 11 weeks +3 days and 13 weeks +6 days. This scan is undertaken when the measurement from the crown to the rump of the developing baby is between 48-84mm. In the event that the scan needs to be performed vaginally, it will be necessary to empty the bladder in preparation. An abdominal scan at this gestation requires a full bladder. This scan usually takes between 10-15 minutes. ![]() It also helps to exclude a tubal or ectopic pregnancy and gives the first indication of the number of developing babies within the uterus. The viability scan is important as it establishes the presence of a healthy ongoing pregnancy and excludes a miscarriage, which can affect as many as 1:20 pregnancies at this gestation. This scan is performed between 6 to 10 weeks gestation and may be performed by placing the scanning probe on the abdomen, or by gently inserting a hygienically covered internal scanning probe into the vagina in instances where the views are obscured by the abdominal route. ![]() The following ultrasound scans are routinely offered by The Oaks Clinic: Scans undertaken during the course of pregnancy can be broken down into those done in early pregnancy (from 6 – 14 weeks gestation), mid-pregnancy (from 14 – 26 weeks gestation) and late pregnancy (from 26 - 40 weeks gestation). 3D / 4D scans are offered as part of a fetal well-being scan. The clinic is accredited for Downs Syndrome screening. The Oaks Clinic offers comprehensive services for pregnant women in its modern clinic in Loughton, Essex.
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