Specialised Diagnostic Tests

Types of Tests

Ultrasound: This is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body, including foetus development within a pregnant woman.
Amniocentesis: This is a diagnostic test performed during pregnancy. It involves using a needle to take a sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby for testing.
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): CVS is another diagnostic prenatal test which involves taking a sample of cells from the placenta to test for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic disorders.
Blood Tests: These can be used in pregnancy for a variety of reasons including checking for anemia, infections, blood type, RH factor, and certain genetic and chromosomal conditions.
Neonatal Screening: This involves a series of tests conducted on a newborn baby to screen for a range of health conditions. One common example is the heel-prick test which screens for diseases like cystic fibrosis and sickle cell.

Purpose and Importance

Primarily, these tests are carried out to detect health conditions early in pregnancy or after birth. Early detection often means better opportunities for treatment or management of the condition.
They are particularly useful to identify genetic disorders or issues that might be hereditary. This information can help in planning care for the child.
In some cases, these tests can reassure anxious parents that their child is healthy, thus supporting emotional well-being of the family.
However, it’s important for parents to understand that there are potential risks associated with some of these tests, such as miscarriage risk with amniocentesis and CVS, and they should make an informed decision accordingly.

Effect on Child and Family

A positive test result can cause stress and anxiety for the parents and immediate family. Adequate counseling and support should be provided to help them deal with the findings.
Certain conditions detected can have a significant effect on the child’s well-being and development, and early intervention can dramatically improve outcomes.
At times, changes in lifestyle might be needed to handle the detected condition effectively, which can have a collective impact on the family’s lifestyle and dynamics.