Diagnostic testing

Ultrasound is a non-invasive test used to confirm the pregnancy diagnosis, calculate the weeks, ensure that there are no anomalies, identify possible foetal malformations, find out the sex of the baby or see foetal movements. In general, the first ultrasounds are performed transvaginally, and the later ones are abdominal.

We perform a non-invasive prenatal test on a blood sample taken from the mother. This allows us to detect the most common chromosomal abnormalities, including Down's, Edwards' and Patau's syndromes.

This test combines a blood test with ultrasound to identify pregnant women who are more likely to be carrying a foetus with a chromosomal abnormality. We call this likelihood risk.
Ultrasound and biochemical screening for aneuploidy is primarily used to detect Down’s syndrome. This alteration is relevant due to its prevalence, survival and strong human and social impact.

We have the appropriate technology to perform complementary explorations with 3D technology for diagnostic purposes: to complete the study of certain foetal malformations, as well as to improve the visualization of some foetal structure.

In addition, the 4D-5D ultrasound can have a playful purpose, to see the face of your baby, its gestures and movements.

amniocentesis is an invasive test used for the precise detection of chromosomal abnormalities. It consists of drawing a sample of amniotic fluid through a needle inserted in the abdomen under ultrasound control and testing it for abnormalities in the chromosomes that can cause Down’s syndrome or some other neurological disease.

Chorionic villus sampling is performed by inserting a needle in the abdomen or through the vagina and cervix (depending on the location of the placenta) and obtaining a sample of the chorionic villi forming part of the placenta tissue. Chorionic villus sampling is an invasive test used for foetal karyotyping. It provides us with cytogenetic information earlier than amniocentesis can.

Array CGH (Comparative Genomic Hybridisation) or Prenatal Molecular Karyotyping is a state-of-the-art genetic diagnostic technique for the diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities with a higher resolution than conventional cytogenetic or karyotyping techniques (an analysis that studies the number and structure of chromosomes).
This test is a tool that allows us to study the human genome quickly and precisely to detect genetic copy number alterations (microdeletions and microduplications) with consequences for foetal development. It allows interrogation of more than 150 genetic syndromes associated with intellectual disability and/or congenital malformations.

La Echocardiography is performed by abdominal ultrasound and used to assess the heart of the foetus if a heart condition is detected. At Dexeus Mujer, it is performed by a specialist in paediatric cardiology who can also monitor the baby after birth.

Cardiotocography or electronic foetal monitoring is a simple, harmless and unobtrusive diagnostic method. The continuous recording of foetal heart rate (FHR) and uterine activity (contractions and foetal movement) on an electronic cardiotocograph (CTG) gives us information about the Foetal Pulmonary Reserve (FPR), i.e. the capacity of the placenta to transport oxygen from mother to child, and the status of the “stress” defence mechanisms of the foetus.

The electrocardiogram is performed at the end of pregnancy as a control before birth.

A blood test is performed each trimester in order to determine the results based on the stage of pregnancy.