During pregnancy, doctors offer various diagnostic teststo check your...
Other320 views·Updated 27 Jul 2026·2 pagesChild Development GCSE: Specialized Diagnostic Tests
Tati@tatisotheraccount_
1
of 2
Early Pregnancy Screening Tests
Your ultrasound scan between weeks 18-21 is like getting your baby's first proper health check-up whilst they're still in the womb. This scan examines all the major body parts - from bones and heart to brain and kidneys - looking for any physical problems that might need attention after birth.
The scan specifically checks for 11 serious conditions including spina bifida, cleft lip, heart problems, and genetic syndromes like Edward's and Patau's. Don't worry though - most babies get the all-clear from these scans.
The nuchal fold translucency test measures fluid at the back of your baby's neck between weeks 11-13. Babies with Down's syndrome often have more of this fluid, but remember - this test only estimates risk, it can't give you a definite answer.
Quick Tip: The alpha fetoprotein test checks mum's blood for traces of baby's liver proteins, which can indicate conditions like spina bifida.
2
of 2
Advanced Diagnostic Procedures
When screening tests suggest a problem, doctors might offer more detailed tests. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) happens between weeks 11-14 and involves taking tiny cells from the placenta using either a needle through mum's tummy or a tube through the cervix.
Amniocentesis works similarly but takes a sample of the fluid around your baby between weeks 15-18. Both tests can accurately diagnose genetic disorders, but they do carry a small risk of miscarriage - CVS slightly more than amniocentesis.
The newest option is non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which analyses baby's DNA from mum's blood from week 10 onwards. It's more accurate and much safer than other tests, but most parents have to pay privately as the NHS doesn't usually offer it.
Remember: These tests are only offered when there's already a higher risk - maybe from family history or previous screening results showing concern.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content in Other
9OtherT-level Education and Early years (teaching assistant)
Elements 1-3
1254116
C
Othercross currical quiz!
hope you enjoy
111231
S
Combined Sciencescience-reproduction ks3
science quiz about reproduction
72843
OtherChild Development & Education Insights
Explore key themes in child development and education, including self-esteem, cognitive theories, and the impact of family dynamics. This comprehensive resource is designed for students preparing for exams in early years education and childcare, providing essential knowledge on legislation, developmental psychology, and educational practices. Perfect for revision and understanding the complexities of child welfare and educational frameworks.
123,455103
OtherTechnology and Ethics in Sport
Explore the impact of technology on sports performance, safety, and officiating, alongside the ethical considerations surrounding participation and doping. This summary covers key concepts such as sportsmanship, barriers to participation, and the role of governing bodies in promoting inclusivity. Ideal for GCSE sports studies students seeking to understand socio-cultural influences and ethical issues in sports.
1056812
O
Otheroperating system computer science gcse
what is operating system and 5 key purposes
111830
OtherPractical Driving Test Checks
Master the essential 'Tell Me' questions for your practical driving test with this comprehensive guide. Learn how to check power-assisted steering, brakes, lights, and fluid levels, ensuring your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. Ideal for aspiring drivers preparing for their test.
1148314
B
BusinessBusiness Questionnaire
Test your knowledge!
111720
English LiteratureWilfred Owen's Exposure Analysis
Dive into the powerful themes of Wilfred Owen's poem 'Exposure' with this detailed analysis. Explore the poet's revolutionary perspective on war, the impact of nature, and the dehumanization of soldiers. This resource includes key quotations, literary techniques, and contextual insights, perfect for AQA GCSE Power and Conflict studies.
1186022
Most popular content
9
SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12102,9683,040
SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1273,7782,306
CriminologyCriminology: Crime & Punishment Overview
Comprehensive mindmaps covering key concepts in the Crime and Punishment topic for WJEC Criminology Unit 4. This resource includes detailed insights into the Criminal Justice System, crime prevention strategies, sentencing models, and the roles of various agencies. Ideal for A-Level revision, ensuring you grasp essential theories and legislative processes to excel in your exams.
1254,8971,060
SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,6701,400
C
BiologyCell Biology and Cell structure
cell structures
113,2880
T
BiologyThe functions of subcellular structures - B1 Biology
Flashcards on the different functions of subcellular structures: cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, cytoplasm, permant vacuole, chloroplasts and cell wall.
112,8215
SociologySociological Theories Overview
Comprehensive revision of key sociological theories including Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, and Interpretivism. Explore concepts like value freedom, identity formation, and the critique of social control. Ideal for AQA A-Level Sociology students preparing for exams. This summary covers essential theories and their implications in sociology, providing a clear understanding of each perspective.
1231,483846
CriminologyWJEC Unit 4 Criminology
Criminology unit 4 detailed revision note
127,177125
1
Biology1.cells Gcse biology question cards
combined science higher biology
112,3694
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user
Other320 views·Updated 27 Jul 2026·2 pagesChild Development GCSE: Specialized Diagnostic Tests
Tati@tatisotheraccount_
During pregnancy, doctors offer various diagnostic tests to check your baby's health and development. These tests can detect genetic conditions and physical abnormalities, helping parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy.
1
of 2
Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Early Pregnancy Screening Tests
Your ultrasound scan between weeks 18-21 is like getting your baby's first proper health check-up whilst they're still in the womb. This scan examines all the major body parts - from bones and heart to brain and kidneys - looking for any physical problems that might need attention after birth.
The scan specifically checks for 11 serious conditions including spina bifida, cleft lip, heart problems, and genetic syndromes like Edward's and Patau's. Don't worry though - most babies get the all-clear from these scans.
The nuchal fold translucency test measures fluid at the back of your baby's neck between weeks 11-13. Babies with Down's syndrome often have more of this fluid, but remember - this test only estimates risk, it can't give you a definite answer.
Quick Tip: The alpha fetoprotein test checks mum's blood for traces of baby's liver proteins, which can indicate conditions like spina bifida.
2
of 2Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Advanced Diagnostic Procedures
When screening tests suggest a problem, doctors might offer more detailed tests. Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) happens between weeks 11-14 and involves taking tiny cells from the placenta using either a needle through mum's tummy or a tube through the cervix.
Amniocentesis works similarly but takes a sample of the fluid around your baby between weeks 15-18. Both tests can accurately diagnose genetic disorders, but they do carry a small risk of miscarriage - CVS slightly more than amniocentesis.
The newest option is non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which analyses baby's DNA from mum's blood from week 10 onwards. It's more accurate and much safer than other tests, but most parents have to pay privately as the NHS doesn't usually offer it.
Remember: These tests are only offered when there's already a higher risk - maybe from family history or previous screening results showing concern.
We thought you’d never ask...
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Similar content
Most popular content in Other
9OtherT-level Education and Early years (teaching assistant)
Elements 1-3
1254116
C
Othercross currical quiz!
hope you enjoy
111231
S
Combined Sciencescience-reproduction ks3
science quiz about reproduction
72843
OtherChild Development & Education Insights
Explore key themes in child development and education, including self-esteem, cognitive theories, and the impact of family dynamics. This comprehensive resource is designed for students preparing for exams in early years education and childcare, providing essential knowledge on legislation, developmental psychology, and educational practices. Perfect for revision and understanding the complexities of child welfare and educational frameworks.
123,455103
OtherTechnology and Ethics in Sport
Explore the impact of technology on sports performance, safety, and officiating, alongside the ethical considerations surrounding participation and doping. This summary covers key concepts such as sportsmanship, barriers to participation, and the role of governing bodies in promoting inclusivity. Ideal for GCSE sports studies students seeking to understand socio-cultural influences and ethical issues in sports.
1056812
O
Otheroperating system computer science gcse
what is operating system and 5 key purposes
111830
OtherPractical Driving Test Checks
Master the essential 'Tell Me' questions for your practical driving test with this comprehensive guide. Learn how to check power-assisted steering, brakes, lights, and fluid levels, ensuring your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. Ideal for aspiring drivers preparing for their test.
1148314
B
BusinessBusiness Questionnaire
Test your knowledge!
111720
English LiteratureWilfred Owen's Exposure Analysis
Dive into the powerful themes of Wilfred Owen's poem 'Exposure' with this detailed analysis. Explore the poet's revolutionary perspective on war, the impact of nature, and the dehumanization of soldiers. This resource includes key quotations, literary techniques, and contextual insights, perfect for AQA GCSE Power and Conflict studies.
1186022
Most popular content
9SociologySociology of Education Overview
Explore comprehensive A-Level Sociology notes on the education system, covering key theories, policies, and sociological perspectives. This resource includes insights on marketisation, gender roles, cultural deprivation, and educational inequalities, providing a thorough understanding of how education shapes social stratification and individual achievement. Ideal for exam preparation and in-depth study.
12102,9683,040
SociologySociology of Families: Comprehensive Revision
Dive into an extensive overview of family dynamics, perspectives, and patterns in sociology. This resource covers key concepts such as family diversity, gender roles, marriage, and the impact of social policies on family structures. Perfect for A-Level Sociology students preparing for Paper 2.
1273,7782,306
CriminologyCriminology: Crime & Punishment Overview
Comprehensive mindmaps covering key concepts in the Crime and Punishment topic for WJEC Criminology Unit 4. This resource includes detailed insights into the Criminal Justice System, crime prevention strategies, sentencing models, and the roles of various agencies. Ideal for A-Level revision, ensuring you grasp essential theories and legislative processes to excel in your exams.
1254,8971,060
SociologyComprehensive Crime & Deviance Overview
Explore an extensive revision of crime and deviance topics, including theories, types of crime, and the impact of media. This resource covers key concepts such as Marxism, functionalism, gender and crime, and the influence of globalization on criminal behavior. Ideal for students seeking a thorough understanding of criminology and its various theories. Type: Full Topic Revision.
1251,6701,400
C
BiologyCell Biology and Cell structure
cell structures
113,2880
T
BiologyThe functions of subcellular structures - B1 Biology
Flashcards on the different functions of subcellular structures: cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, ribosomes, cytoplasm, permant vacuole, chloroplasts and cell wall.
112,8215
SociologySociological Theories Overview
Comprehensive revision of key sociological theories including Functionalism, Marxism, Feminism, and Interpretivism. Explore concepts like value freedom, identity formation, and the critique of social control. Ideal for AQA A-Level Sociology students preparing for exams. This summary covers essential theories and their implications in sociology, providing a clear understanding of each perspective.
1231,483846
CriminologyWJEC Unit 4 Criminology
Criminology unit 4 detailed revision note
127,177125
1
Biology1.cells Gcse biology question cards
combined science higher biology
112,3694
Students love us — and so will you.
4.6/5App Store
4.7/5Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
AnnaiOS user