At 6-12 weeks pregnant, your partner will be given their first ultrasound. This test:
- ensures that your baby is growing in the right place, that is, inside the uterus
- ensures that your child develops normally
- shows the number of babies present
- helps medical professionals determine your baby's age and due date
- it is part of the test to see if your baby has a disorder such as Down syndrome.
If all goes well, this exploration will most likely be one of the most amazing experiences of your life. It's the first time you see your baby. You will hear the baby's heartbeat and possibly see some hand movements or acrobatics.
You still won't be able to find out what the sex of your baby is. If you and your spouse want to know, you will usually have to wait until the 20-week ultrasound.
First-trimester Screening Tests
During the first trimester, your doctor will talk with you and your partner about screening for chromosomal abnormalities and other disorders.
Screening tests determine how likely your baby is to have certain chromosomal abnormalities or other disorders. The results will indicate whether your child is at high or low risk for developing certain disorders. Screening tests do not detect all chromosome abnormalities and cannot tell you whether or not your child is affected.
The following screening tests are done during the first trimester:
- Non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT): a simple blood test is used.
- CFTS (First Trimester Combined Screening) combines a blood test from your spouse with a measurement from an ultrasound taken between 11 and 13 weeks.
Special prenatal tests, such as CVS or amniocentesis, are required to determine conditions such as Down syndrome. If you are considering these tests, genetic counselling services can provide more information.
Miscarriage or health problems at 12 weeks
Although most pregnancies are uneventful, there is a chance that the scan will reveal that your baby is no longer alive.
When a baby dies before the 20th week of pregnancy, this is known as a miscarriage. Miscarriage is quite common. About 10-25 % of pregnancies end in miscarriage, and 80 % of miscarriages occur before 12 weeks. Miscarriage can be disastrous. Along with your loss and despair, you may feel helpless as you are unable to protect your partner or your child.
There is also the possibility that the scan will reveal more health problems or difficulties. If this is the case, your spouse will need your help. In addition to taking care of her, it is essential to recognise your own emotions and talk to someone you can trust.
If there are medical concerns, or if you have had problems with a previous pregnancy, or if the pregnancy dates are too ambiguous, your doctor may recommend additional scans or tests. Some conditions cannot be seen on a scan or only later in pregnancy.
Things you can do
- Continue with the first scan. If possible, make an appointment with your partner at a time and day that is convenient for both of you.
- Check with your employer in advance about taking time off to attend the appointment.
- Support your partner if the scan reveals something unexpected. Acknowledge your own emotions and talk to someone you trust.
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