The goal of every pregnant woman and her doctor is the birth of a healthy baby. 2 to 3% of babies are born with some type of birth (congenital) defect. The First Trimester Pregnancy Screen (FTPS) gives important information about your baby, including risks of birth defects or possible pregnancy complications.

What's First Trimester Pregnancy Screen?

The FTPS combines a high resolution ultrasound scan with maternal blood screening during the late first trimester i.e. 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. Nuchal translucency measurements are made i.e. the amount of fluid at the back of the neck. NT thickness serves as an indicator of chromosomal disorder. In addition, the mother's blood sample is analysed for 2 chemicals, free beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (beta-hCG) and pregnancy associated plasma protein- A (PAPP-A).

The ultrasound and blood test results are combined to estimate the risks of Down Syndrome. FTPS detects 90% of Down Syndrome as well as some other birth defects. It is a non-invasive test and is therefore safe for both mother and fetus.

What is the risk of Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome is the commonest chromosomal abnormality and is associated with reduced IQ, developmental delay and other congenital defects. The risk increases with maternal age and is tabulated below.

What does FTPS show?

The measurements taken during the FTPS gives a risk score which indicates whether the risk is higher or lower than that expected for a particular age group. E.g., a risk score of 1 in 800 for a 35 year old expectant mother means that she is not at increased risk of a Down Syndrome baby in spite of her age.

FTPS is recommended because it:

• Gives important information about your baby.

• Detects more birth defects than 2nd trimester screening.

• Helps identify over 90% of Down Syndrome and other birth anomalies including heart defects.

• Reduces unnecessary anxiety, saves time and cost.

• It is approved by the Royal College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology as the test for the first trimester screening.

For enquiries, please contact us at FTPS@pachealthholdings.com or Call (65) 6887 1105