Module 2.1 Table 2-2 Fetal Development Monitoring Techniques

fetal blood sampling (FBS)

performed after 18 wks of pregnancy by collecting a small amount of blood from the umbilical cord for testing; used to detect Down's syndrome and most other chromosomal normality

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

done at 8 to 11 wks of pregnancy, either transabdominally or transcervically (based on location of the placenta); inserting needle into the placenta substance but staying outside the amniotic sac and removing 10 to 15 ml of tissue

Amniocentesis

done between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy; examines samples of the amniotic fluid which contains fetal cells; recommended if parent carries Tay-Sachs, spina bifida, sickle-cell, Down's syndrome, muscular dystrophy, or Rh disease

embryoscopy

examines the embryo/fetus during the first 12 wks of pregnancy by means of a fibre optic endoscope inserted through the cervix; permits diagnosis of malformations

sonoembryology

used to detect abnormalities in the first trimester; involves high-frequency transvaginal probes and digital image processing; in combo with ultrasound, it can detect more than 80% of all malformations

sonogram

uses ultrasound to produce a visual image of the uterus, fetus and placenta

ultrasound sonography

uses very high frequency sound waves to detect structural abnormalities or multiple pregnancies, measure fetal growth, judge gestational age, and evaluate uterine abnormalities