Ultrascreen testing?

map94612 · August 2013

In our last appointment, the nurse practitioner mentioned getting an ultrascreen test in a few weeks. She mentioned that "lots of women" get it. Being new mommy-to-be, I have never heard of this test before. I currently have independent insurance that does not cover ultrasounds. This test would require a second ultrasound out-of-pocket, plus additional blood tests which would be covered by insurance. I've read that the ultrascreen tests for Down Syndrome,Trisomy 18, and congenital heart defects. My husband and I are against abortions and would keep the baby even if we found that the baby had a high risk for Down Syndrome. It would be helpful to prepare if there is going to be concerns like this, but it would not change our decision.

My question is: how many of you had the ultrascreen test done? Is it really that common to get?

Also, can we test for these abnormalities later in my pregnancy? I ask this question because I may join my company's group insurance in the next 2 months which may cover this type of testing...

Thanks!

map94612 · August 2013

The paperwork says "ultrascreen" because it's more than an ultrasound. I have had my first ultrasound already. The ultrascreen does not appear to diagnose anything that would be life threatening, therefore, would not convince me to abort. I did not want to go into all the ethics that we believe, just asking a question. I know the cost already, it is not 4-5 times more expensive. It would be about the same as another ultrasound as the blood work is covered by my insurance.

YouMe&Bax · August 2013

What you are asking is a bit of a ethics/personal decision question. Lots of women choose to do it, lots of women don't. If you know the cost, what it screens for, etc - then it is your choice to do it or not. Nobody can tell you one way or the other - you just have to make an informed decision that is best for you and your family.

aschultz9 · August 2013

you can only have the Ultrascreen through week 13. There is a blood screening available in the 2nd trimester that screens for Downs risk etc, it has a high false positive rate. either way, both are screening tests and not diagnostic. If you screen at higher risk you are referred to a genetic counselor and Maternal Fetal Medicine Dr. who can review results in detail and discuss further testing that can be offered, and could be diagnostic, but those come with risks to the pregnancy.

In my experience many women DO have the Ultrascreen, but most insurance co are covering it so this probably has a lot to do with it.

map94612 · August 2013

I appreciate the information. It is a hard decision. I have called my insurance company (a few times) regarding whether they cover this test. I gave them the codes and everything, but could not get a simple yes or no if they cover it. They just read me what is covered (blood work, check-ups, etc.) and what is not (ultrasounds). That is also a frustrating piece to this decision.

MissLadyTay · August 2013

MH and I get all available genetic testing, including cystic fibrosis, since people in his family are carriers.

FemShep · August 2013

One thing to keep in mind is that even if you are positive you'll keep the child, knowing you will have a special needs baby may change your mind about where you'll deliver (may opt for a hospital with more advanced NICU), who will be present at the delivery, and what care you'll need to line up when you go home. The decision to test is absolutely a personal choice, but even thinking that it won't impact your decision to keep a pregnancy doesn't mean the knowledge can't be important and helpful.

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