Fetal Diagnostic Center
Several factors can put a woman and her baby at a higher risk of complications—age, medical condition, family history, and multiple births are some of the most common.
At St. Jude Medical Center, our expertise in assessing and managing high-risk pregnancies has made us a leader in helping women and their babies achieve the very best outcomes. We offer state-of-the-art assessment, screening and education. Advanced diagnostic testing—from amniocentesis and genetic testing, to highly detailed 3-D and 4-D sonograms—helps us determine important information about the health and condition of the baby before birth. Having this information early allows parents to begin evaluating treatment options and allows the delivery team to anticipate the baby’s medical needs.
Our Fetal Diagnostic Center provides one-on-one genetic counseling and education to expectant mothers, couples and families planning a pregnancy. Our experienced genetic counselors evaluate each pregnancy for risk factors related to:
- Genetic conditions
- Birth defects
- Prenatal screening results
- Abnormal ultrasound findings
- Family history
There are many reasons an obstetrician refers an expectant mother to the Fetal Diagnostic Center, some may include:
- Patients over the age of 35
- Problem revealed during a blood test or ultrasound
- Family history of an inherited disorder
- Personal history of miscarriages or stillbirth
- High risk pregnancy
- Medical issues, such as high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes
We provide the most advanced diagnostic testing to help determine important information about the health and condition of a baby before birth. Perinatal diagnostic services at the center include:
- Amniocentesis
- Antepartum testing
- Biophysical profile
- Screening for birth defects and genetic disorders
- Non-stress testing and contraction stress testing
- Detailed ultrasound of the baby
- First trimester screening for Down syndrome and trisomy 18
- Second trimester alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) testing for open spina bifida
- Quad screen analysis
- Fetal echocardiogram for the detection of heart defects
Find a Doctor
At Providence, you'll have access to a vast network of dedicated and compassionate providers who offer personalized care by focusing on treatment, prevention and health education.
