Ultrasound Examinations

Routine Ultrasounds

New Braunfels OB/GYN has invested in the latest ultrasound technology.  A two-dimensional, first trimester ultrasound is performed to confirm pregnancy location in the uterus and gestational age to determine your due date.  A second trimester ultrasound will also be performed, but this time by our ultrasound technician who will take a detailed look at the baby’s anatomy.

Optional 3D/4D Ultrasound Imaging

In addition to the routine ultrasounds covered by insurance as part of your OB care, New Braunfels Ob/Gyn is proud to offer additional, optional ultrasound imaging packages to our expectant families.  3D ultrasound technology is used to produce 3D images and 4D colorized movies of your baby.  An optimal time for a 3D/4D ultrasound is between 28 and 32 weeks gestation, although it can be done at any time during pregnancy.  We offer multiple packages ranging from a basic 2D package to a deluxe 3D/4D package.  View our 3D/4D Ultrasound Imaging promotional flyer by clicking here: 3D/4D Ultrasound Brochure

Screening during pregnancy

New Braunfels OB/Gyn is proud to introduce the latest in genetic screening to our pregnant patients.

Panorama Prenatal Screen

The Panorama Prenatal Screen we offer is a DNA screening test that provides you with essential genetic information about your baby.  Panorama is a non-invasive test performed through a simple blood draw once pregnancy is confirmed.  During pregnancy some of the DNA from the baby crosses into the mother’s bloodstream.  Panorama looks at this DNA to see if there is evidence of certain genetic conditions that could affect the baby’s health such as:

• Down Syndrome
• Edward’s Syndrome
• Patau Syndrome
• Triploidy
• Certain sex chromosome abnormalities

In addition to these chromosomal abnormalities, you can optionally screen for five microdeletion syndromes.  Panorama can also tell you the baby’s gender if you so choose.  For more information about this test please visit www.panoramatest.com.

NT Testing

NT testing, or nuchal translucency testing, is an optional first trimester screening.  Similar to other screenings, results indicate your baby’s risk of certain birth defects, such as Down syndrome, Edward’s syndrome (trisomy 18), trisomy 13, and many other chromosomal abnormalities, as well as heart problems.  The screening involves bloodwork and a special ultrasound.  The blood test checks for levels of two substances — pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and human chorionic gonadotropin. A specialized ultrasound called a nuchal translucency screening then measures the back of the baby’s neck.  Results are interpreted by a maternal fetal medicine specialist (MFM).

Quadruple Screen

The quadruple screen, or quad screen, is a blood test performed during the second-trimester that can be used instead of the Panorama Prenatal Screen.  A quad screen checks for the following four things in your blood that influence the development of the baby’s brain, spinal cord and neural tissues:

• Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): Your baby’s liver produces AFP. Levels higher than expected could mean the baby has a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. Low AFP levels could mean a higher risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.
• Unconjugated estriol (UE): Your baby and placenta (the structure providing nutrients to your baby) produce this hormone. Low levels indicate a higher risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.
• Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): The placenta makes a hormone called hCG, which the screening detects. Levels that are higher than expected could mean an increased risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.
• Inhibin-A: Your placenta and ovaries produce this protein. The risk of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with higher-than-expected levels of this protein.

AFP Blood Test

Unborn babies normally make alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) which shows up in their mother’s blood. Checking the level of AFP in a mom-to-be around four months of pregnancy can show if their baby may have problems with their neural tube, what will become the brain and spinal cord.  The AFP Blood Test can be performed in patients who also opted for Panorama prenatal screen.

Horizon Carrier Screening

The Horizon genetic carrier screening helps couples determine the risk of passing on serious genetic conditions to their child. It can be performed either preconception (ideally) or during pregnancy.  Using the latest technologies, including next-generation sequencing, Horizon screens for up to 274 genetic conditions, including commonly screened conditions such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, fragile X syndrome, and sickle cell anemia.  Advanced technology and unmatched support make Horizon unique among DNA screening tests. The test is easy to take. Results are presented clearly, directly, and can pave the way to critical action steps. Visit www.natera.com to learn more about this screening.