Who Is Referred to a Perinatal Diagnostic Center?
Our Perinatal Diagnostic Centers (PDCs) provide a wide range of prenatal testing, consultation and genetic counseling services. Some of the reasons a pregnant woman may be referred to a PDC include:
- Level 2 ultrasound
- Growth scan to check your baby’s growth
- Nonstress testing
- Prenatal testing for chromosomal and neural tube defects
- Biophysical profile - ultrasound imaging of amniotic fluid volume and fetal movement, breathing and tone
- Meeting with a genetic counselor to discuss:
- Prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing options
- Genetic issues associated with advanced maternal age
- A positive result from the State of California Prenatal Screening Program
- Family history of physical abnormality or a known chromosomal, metabolic or genetic condition
- Multiple miscarriages
- Marriage between relatives (consanguinity)
- Problems diagnosed by ultrasound
- Testing for a specific genetic disorder
- Exposure to teratogens (substances which may cause fetal defects). These include some drugs or medications, infections, alcohol, toxins and chemotherapy.