First trimester screening and nuchal densitometry

First trimester screening (NIPT test) / nuchal densitometry (NT)

First trimester screening is a non-invasive, risk-free procedure in early pregnancy for the individual risk assessment of the possible presence of chromosomal disorders in the unborn child.

Screening/sonography (also known as nuchal fold measurement) and a special blood test can be used to determine the risk of a child having trisomy 21 (also known as Down syndrome) and other rarer disorders (trisomy 13 and 18).

This test is carried out between the 12th and 14th week of pregnancy to check whether there is an increased risk of these genetic disorders. The possible detection rate is over 80% and can be increased to over 90% with additional examinations.

We also carry out early malformation diagnostics as part of the first trimester ultrasound screening. This enables us to detect further embryonic developments that are not typical. For more specific sonographic malformation diagnostics, I will be happy to recommend you to my network of experts in Munich (DEGUM II/III certified for fine ultrasound). This enables the diagnosis of possible malformations of the heart, brain or other organs. This usually takes place between the 20th and 22nd week of pregnancy.

We recommend that you have the blood sample taken for the first trimester screening a few days before the ultrasound examination. The result of the laboratory test is then available for the specific ultrasound examination and can be discussed with you as a report.

Please note that the test is not covered by statutory health insurance. If you have any questions, please contact your team at the gynecological practice at Marienplatz.

NIPT test

The NIPT test is a non-invasive prenatal test, the basic version of which looks for trisomy 21, 18 and 13 of the fetus in the mother's blood from the 11th week of pregnancy. With a certainty of 99%. On request or indication, there is also an extended search for other genetic defects and also for gender.

Since 2021, this test has also been covered by statutory health insurance. This is preceded by a differentiated consultation about the possibilities, limits and consequences of the test result.