Prenatal Diagnosis

Prenatal diagnosis is making a diagnosis before birth. Methods for prenatal diagnosis include

ultrasound

of the uterus,

placenta

and the developing

foetus

.

Chorionic villus sampling

(CVS) involves getting a sample of the placental tissue, known as chorionic villus. This is tested for chromosomal or

genetic disorders

.

Amniocentesis

is used to obtain amniotic fluid from the amniotic sac surrounding the developing foetus. This fluid enables

chromosomes

and enzymes to be tested for genetic and other abnormalities. A growing number of

birth defects

and diseases can be diagnosed prenatally, and in some cases may be treated before birth.

For other locations use the refine search location field below

Refine Search: