What do the First Trimester Screen results mean?
It is important to remember that the First Trimester Screen is a screening test and not a diagnostic test. This test only notes that a mother is at risk of carrying a baby with a genetic disorder. Many women who experience an abnormal test discover later that the test proved false. You will not be given specific quantitative values for the separate parts of the First Trimester screen. Instead, you will be told whether your results are “normal or abnormal”, and you will be given a risk level by your genetic counselor. The counselor will give you your risk factor for chromosomal abnormalities based on the test results (for example 1/250, 1/1300). Abnormal test results warrant additional testing for making a diagnosis. Your genetic counselor will discuss the results with you and assist you in deciding about diagnostic tests, such as CVS or amniocentesis. These invasive procedures should be discussed thoroughly with your healthcare provider and between you and your partner. Additional coun
