First-trimester screening results: What my numbers mean explained

Quick take: First‑trimester screening looks at your pregnancy’s early clues—maternal age, blood markers, and nuchal translucency—to estimate the chance of chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. A “low‑risk” result means the chance is below about 1 in 1,000; a “high‑risk” result means the chance is higher than that threshold and warrants further testing. Results are estimates, not diagnoses, and most women with a high‑risk screen have a healthy baby. Understanding the numbers—and what they *don’t* tell you—can help you make informed decisions without unnecessary anxiety.

It’s 2 a.m., you’re curled up on the couch, and the email from your clinic pops up: “Your first‑trimester screen is ready.” Your heart races. You’ve heard the words “risk” and “probability” before, but you’re not sure what they mean for your little one—or for your peace of mind. You’re not alone. Many expectant parents feel a mix of curiosity, anxiety, and a desire for clear answers as soon as the numbers appear.

In this guide we’ll unpack the whole process: why the screen is offered, what the individual numbers represent, how doctors translate those numbers into a risk estimate, and what you can do next—whether the result is reassuring or calls for further evaluation. We’ll also flag the limitations of the test, share a relatable story from a reader who’s been through it, and give you practical steps you can take today. Plus, we’ll explore how to interpret results if you’re carrying twins, what to do if your numbers fall into the “intermediate” gray zone, and how to prepare for the emotional rollercoaster that sometimes comes with screening.

What is first‑trimester screening and why it’s offered

First‑trimester screening (sometimes called the combined test) is a non‑invasive evaluation performed between 10 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. It’s designed to estimate the chance that the fetus has certain chromosomal conditions, most commonly trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome). The test doesn’t diagnose; it simply flags pregnancies that might benefit from more detailed testing.

The rationale is two‑fold. First, early detection gives families more options—whether that means planning for a pregnancy with a chromosomal condition, preparing for specialized care, or simply feeling reassured. Second, early screening can reduce the need for invasive procedures later on, because many low‑risk pregnancies can safely continue without further testing.

Guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommend offering the combined screen to all pregnant people, regardless of age or risk factors, unless they opt out. Offering the test universally helps ensure that no one is left without information because of socioeconomic or cultural barriers.

Beyond the clinical rationale, many parents find comfort in knowing that they’ve taken an early step to understand their pregnancy. The act of scheduling the screen, attending the appointment, and receiving the results can feel like an active part in the journey, reducing the sense of helplessness that sometimes accompanies early pregnancy uncertainty. For some, it’s also a way to honor a previous pregnancy loss or a family history of chromosomal conditions, turning the screening into a moment of connection and hope.

It’s worth noting that the combined screen is just one of several prenatal screening options available today. Some parents may choose to skip it entirely in favor of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which can be done as early as 9 weeks and offers higher detection rates. Others may opt for diagnostic testing like chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis if they have specific concerns. The key is to understand the pros and cons of each option so you can make a choice that aligns with your values and needs.

How the screening is performed: components and what they measure

1. Maternal age and medical history. Older maternal age slightly raises the statistical chance of chromosomal anomalies, so age is a key factor in the risk calculation. However, it’s important to remember that chromosomal conditions can occur at any age—about 80% of babies with Down syndrome are born to women under 35, simply because younger women have more babies overall.
2. Serum biomarkers. A small blood sample is taken to measure two proteins: pregnancy‑associated plasma protein‑A (PAPP‑A) and free beta‑human chorionic gonadotropin (β‑hCG). In typical pregnancies, PAPP‑A levels rise while β‑hCG levels stay within a certain range. Deviations can suggest an increased risk. For example, low PAPP‑A levels are associated with a higher chance of Down syndrome, while high β‑hCG levels may also raise the risk.
3. Nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound. A skilled sonographer measures the fluid‑filled space at the back of the baby's neck. A thicker NT measurement is associated with a higher chance of chromosomal conditions, but it can also indicate other issues like heart defects or genetic syndromes. The NT scan is highly technician-dependent, which is why it’s usually performed by a specialist trained in fetal medicine.

All three data points are entered into a risk algorithm that produces a numerical probability. The algorithm is calibrated by large population studies and varies slightly between labs, but the core principle is the same worldwide. The results are typically reported as a ratio (e.g., 1 in 500) or a percentage (e.g., 0.2%), which represents the estimated chance that the fetus has a specific chromosomal condition.

Laboratories that process the serum markers follow strict quality‑control standards set by the FDA and the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) to ensure consistent results across different facilities. Some centers also incorporate additional markers—such as inhibin‑A—into an expanded “triple‑test” version, which can modestly improve detection rates for certain conditions. However, the standard combined screen remains the most widely used approach due to its balance of accuracy and accessibility.

Because the three components each contribute a piece of the puzzle, the combined screen is more accurate than any single marker alone. If you’d like to see how changing one number affects your overall risk, you can try our First-Trimester Combined Screen calculator, which lets you input your age, PAPP‑A, β‑hCG, and NT measurement.

How twin pregnancies change the screening picture

If you’re carrying twins (or more!), first-trimester screening works a little differently. The combined screen can still be performed, but the interpretation of the results requires extra care. In twin pregnancies, the blood markers (PAPP-A and β-hCG) reflect the combined contribution of both fetuses, which can make it harder to pinpoint which baby, if either, might be at higher risk. As a result, the overall detection rate for chromosomal conditions is slightly lower in twins than in singleton pregnancies—around 70-80% for Down syndrome, compared to 85-90% for singletons.

The nuchal translucency (NT) scan is performed separately for each fetus, which can provide more individualized information. However, if one fetus has a thicker NT measurement, it doesn’t necessarily mean that fetus has a chromosomal condition—it could simply reflect normal variation. In some cases, providers may recommend non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for twin pregnancies, as it can analyze fetal DNA from both babies and offer a clearer picture of the risk for each. NIPT is particularly useful in twin pregnancies because it avoids the ambiguity of combined screening results.

If you’re expecting twins and receive a high-risk screen, your provider may suggest additional monitoring or diagnostic testing, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis. These procedures can be performed in twin pregnancies, but they carry a slightly higher risk of complications, such as miscarriage, compared to singleton pregnancies. Genetic counseling is especially valuable in these cases, as it can help you weigh the benefits and risks of further testing and make a decision that feels right for your family.

Understanding the numbers: risk scores, probability, and what “low” vs “high” means

When your provider calls you in, they’ll usually give you a result that looks something like “1 in 350” or “1 in 1,200.” This is a **risk estimate**—the chance that the fetus has a particular chromosomal condition based on the combined data.

In most clinics, a result is categorized as:

• Low risk: less than 1 in 1,000 (or a similar threshold such as 1 in 270 for Down syndrome, depending on local guidelines).
• Intermediate risk: between the low‑risk cutoff and a higher threshold (e.g., 1 in 270 to 1 in 100).
• High risk: greater than the high‑risk threshold, often quoted as “greater than 1 in 250” or “1 in 150.”

These thresholds are not arbitrary; they stem from large‑scale studies that balance the chance of missing a diagnosis (false‑negative) against the chance of unnecessary follow‑up (false‑positive). A low‑risk result means the statistical chance is small enough that most clinicians recommend no further testing unless you have other concerns.

It’s helpful to translate odds into percentages for everyday understanding. A “1 in 150” risk equates to about 0.7 %, while “1 in 1,200” is roughly 0.08 %. Even a “high‑risk” number can feel intimidating, but putting it in the context of everyday probabilities (like the chance of getting struck by lightning in a year) can provide perspective. For example, the average person’s lifetime risk of being in a car accident is about 1 in 366—higher than many high-risk screening results—but we don’t spend our days paralyzed by that statistic.

It’s also normal for people to interpret risk through personal lenses—some may feel uneasy with any number above 1 %, while others may focus on the absolute low probability. Discussing your comfort level with your provider helps tailor the next steps to what feels right for you. Some parents find it helpful to ask their provider to rephrase the risk in different ways: “What does this number mean in terms of the likelihood my baby *doesn’t* have this condition?” or “How does this compare to the general population risk for my age?”

Navigating the “intermediate” gray zone

If your result falls into the intermediate-risk category—say, between 1 in 270 and 1 in 100—you might feel stuck in limbo. This range is neither clearly low-risk nor clearly high-risk, and it can leave you wondering what to do next. The good news is that intermediate results are relatively common, and there are clear steps you can take to get more clarity.

First, ask your provider to explain where your result falls within the intermediate range. A risk of 1 in 200 is different from a risk of 1 in 120, and the closer you are to the high-risk threshold, the more likely your provider will recommend further testing. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is often the next best step for intermediate results, as it offers higher accuracy and can help reclassify your risk as either low or high. If NIPT is also inconclusive or suggests a higher risk, your provider may discuss diagnostic testing like CVS or amniocentesis.

It’s also worth considering your personal risk tolerance. Some parents with intermediate results feel comfortable waiting for the anatomy scan at 18-22 weeks, which can provide additional information about the baby’s development. Others may prefer the reassurance of NIPT or diagnostic testing sooner. There’s no “right” choice—only what feels right for you. If you’re unsure, a genetic counselor can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and make a decision that aligns with your values.

Emotionally, intermediate results can be challenging because they don’t provide the clear reassurance of a low-risk screen or the actionable next steps of a high-risk screen. It’s normal to feel frustrated or anxious during this waiting period. Lean on your support network, and don’t hesitate to ask your provider for additional resources, such as support groups or counseling services. Many parents find that talking to others who’ve been through the same experience can provide comfort and perspective.

Accuracy, limitations, and why results can be misleading

First‑trimester screening is praised for its relatively high detection rate—about 85‑90 % for Down syndrome and 70‑80 % for Edwards syndrome—while keeping false‑positive rates around 5 % when using the standard risk cutoffs. However, no test is perfect.

Factors that can affect accuracy include:

• Gestational age. The test must be performed within the 10‑14 week window. An early or late scan can skew NT measurements and biomarker levels. For example, PAPP-A levels rise rapidly in early pregnancy, so even a few days’ difference in gestational age can affect the result.
• Maternal weight. Higher body‑mass index (BMI) can dilute serum marker concentrations, potentially lowering the apparent risk. This is why some labs adjust the risk calculation based on maternal weight to improve accuracy.
• Technical quality of the NT scan. If the ultrasound image is blurry or the fetus is in an unfavorable position, the measurement may be less reliable. In some cases, the sonographer may ask you to return for a repeat scan to get a clearer image.
• Laboratory variability. Different labs may use slightly different assay methods for PAPP‑A and β‑hCG, leading to small variations in the calculated risk. This is why it’s important to have your results interpreted by a provider familiar with the lab’s specific protocols.
• Multiples or vanishing twin. If you’re carrying twins or had a vanishing twin earlier in the pregnancy, the blood markers may be harder to interpret, as they reflect the combined contribution of both fetuses. In these cases, the NT scan becomes even more important for risk assessment.

Because the combined screen is a **probability**, it can sometimes give a high‑risk result even when the fetus is chromosomally normal (false positive), and it can occasionally miss a condition (false negative). The false‑negative rate is low, but it’s not zero. For example, about 10-15% of Down syndrome cases are not detected by first-trimester screening, often because the NT measurement or blood markers fall within the normal range despite the presence of the condition.

Another limitation is that the screen primarily targets trisomies 21 and 18. Other conditions—such as trisomy 13 or certain microdeletions—are not reliably detected by this test. For those specific concerns, dedicated cell‑free DNA testing (NIPT) or diagnostic procedures may be recommended. Additionally, the combined screen does not assess the risk of structural anomalies, such as heart defects or neural tube defects, which are typically evaluated during the anatomy scan at 18-22 weeks.

The concept of **positive predictive value (PPV)** is especially important. PPV tells you the chance that a high‑risk screen truly reflects a chromosomal abnormality. PPV depends on the prevalence of the condition in the population, which means it can vary between younger and older mothers. For example, a 25-year-old woman with a high-risk result of 1 in 150 has a lower PPV than a 40-year-old woman with the same result, because chromosomal conditions are less common in younger women. This is why age remains a critical factor in interpreting screening results, even when other markers are included.

How to prepare emotionally for your screening results

Waiting for your first-trimester screening results can feel like an emotional marathon. The uncertainty—especially if you’ve had a previous pregnancy loss or a family history of chromosomal conditions—can amplify anxiety. While it’s impossible to eliminate the stress entirely, there are ways to prepare yourself emotionally so you’re better equipped to handle whatever the results may be.

First, remind yourself that the vast majority of screening results are low-risk. Even if your result is high-risk, remember that most high-risk screens turn out to be false positives after further testing. It can help to write down these statistics and keep them somewhere visible, like on your phone or a sticky note on your mirror. When anxiety creeps in, revisiting the facts can ground you in reality rather than worst-case scenarios.

Next, plan how you’ll receive the results. Some clinics call with results, while others send them via email or a patient portal. If you’re someone who prefers to process information in private, ask your provider if you can receive the results in writing first, so you have time to read and digest them before discussing next steps. If you’d rather hear the news directly from your provider, schedule a phone call or in-person appointment to go over the results together.

It’s also helpful to prepare a list of questions in advance. Some questions you might want to ask include:

• What does this result mean in plain language?
• What are the next steps, and what are the pros and cons of each?
• How accurate is this result for my specific situation?
• What are the chances this is a false positive or false negative?
• Can you connect me with a genetic counselor or support group?

Finally, lean on your support network. Let your partner, a close friend, or a family member know when you’re expecting the results, and ask them to check in on you. Sometimes, just knowing someone is there to listen can make the waiting period feel less isolating. If you’re comfortable, you might also consider joining an online community for expectant parents. Hearing others share their experiences—both the fears and the relief—can normalize your feelings and provide a sense of solidarity.

What a normal result looks like and what a high‑risk result means

A **normal** (low‑risk) result typically reads something like “1 in 1,200” for Down syndrome. In plain language, that means the chance of the condition is about 0.08 %—roughly the same as flipping a coin 12 times and getting heads each time. Most clinicians interpret this as reassuring and continue with standard prenatal care. However, it’s important to remember that a low-risk result doesn’t guarantee a “perfect” baby. The combined screen only assesses the risk of a few specific chromosomal conditions, not other genetic or structural anomalies that might be detected later in pregnancy.

A **high‑risk** result might be reported as “1 in 150” or simply “greater than 1 in 250.” This tells you that the statistical chance is higher than the low‑risk threshold. While the absolute probability is still modest, the result signals that a more definitive test—usually a non‑invasive prenatal test (NIPT) or a diagnostic procedure like chorionic villus sampling (CVS)—is advisable.

It’s natural to feel fear when hearing “high risk.” One of our readers, who asked to remain anonymous, described the moment: “I stared at the number, and my mind raced to worst‑case scenarios. The next thing I did was call my midwife, and she explained that a high‑risk screen is just a flag, not a verdict. That conversation saved me from panic.” Many parents find that the initial shock gives way to a sense of empowerment as they learn more about their options and take proactive steps to gather more information.

Beyond the numbers, many parents find that a high‑risk result prompts a deeper conversation with their support network. Sharing the information early allows partners, families, and close friends to offer emotional support, ask questions, and help navigate the next steps together. Some parents choose to keep the news private until they have more clarity from follow-up testing, while others find relief in talking openly about their fears and hopes. There’s no right or wrong way to process the news—only what feels right for you.

It’s also worth noting that a high-risk result can sometimes lead to unexpected positive outcomes. For example, some parents use the experience as an opportunity to connect with support groups or advocacy organizations for chromosomal conditions. Others find that the additional testing and monitoring bring a sense of reassurance and connection to their pregnancy. While the initial news can feel overwhelming, many parents look back on the experience as a turning point that strengthened their resolve and deepened their bond with their baby.

Next steps after a low‑risk result

If your result falls into the low‑risk category, most providers will recommend:

1. Continuing routine prenatal visits.
2. Optional follow‑up with a non‑invasive prenatal test (NIPT) if you want extra reassurance, especially if you have a family history of chromosomal conditions or other risk factors.
3. Standard anatomy ultrasound at 18‑22 weeks, which can also identify certain structural anomalies, such as heart defects or neural tube defects, that the first-trimester screen does not assess.

Because the combined screen is not a diagnosis, some parents still choose to have an NIPT for added peace of mind. NIPT analyzes fetal DNA fragments in the mother’s blood and has a detection rate above 99 % for Down syndrome, with a false‑positive rate under 0.1 %. It can also screen for other chromosomal conditions, such as trisomy 13 and trisomy 18, as well as certain sex chromosome anomalies. NIPT is particularly useful if you have a family history of genetic conditions or if you’re carrying twins, as it can provide more individualized results than the combined screen.

Even with a low‑risk screen, keep an eye on any pregnancy symptoms that feel unusual—persistent severe nausea, unusual bleeding, or rapid fetal growth. These are not directly related to the screening but merit a check‑in with your provider. It’s also a good idea to review your family medical history with your provider, as some genetic conditions are not detected by standard screening tests. For example, if you or your partner have a family history of cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or Tay-Sachs disease, your provider may recommend carrier screening to assess your risk of passing these conditions to your baby.

Low‑risk results also give you a chance to focus on healthy habits that support fetal development: staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in folate, and getting appropriate prenatal vitamins as recommended by the NHS and ACOG. This is also a great time to start thinking about your birth plan and any preferences you have for labor and delivery. While it’s early in the pregnancy, having a general idea of your wishes can help you feel more prepared and in control as your due date approaches.

Next steps after a high‑risk or abnormal result

A high‑risk screen opens a pathway to more detailed testing. The most common next steps are:

• Non‑invasive prenatal testing (NIPT). This blood test can confirm or refute the increased risk with high accuracy and carries no risk to the pregnancy. NIPT is often the first step after a high-risk combined screen because it’s highly sensitive and specific for the conditions it screens for. If NIPT returns a low-risk result, many providers will consider the matter resolved and continue with routine prenatal care. If NIPT confirms a high risk, your provider will likely discuss diagnostic testing options.
• Diagnostic procedures. If NIPT also indicates a high risk, or if you prefer a definitive answer, you may be offered chorionic villus sampling (CVS) around 11‑13 weeks or amniocentesis after 15 weeks. Both involve taking a small sample of placental tissue or amniotic fluid, respectively, and carry a small risk of miscarriage (about 0.5‑1 %). CVS is typically performed earlier in pregnancy, which can be an advantage if you’re considering early decisions about the pregnancy. Amniocentesis, while slightly safer in terms of miscarriage risk, is usually done later and may not provide results until the second trimester.
• Genetic counseling. A certified genetic counselor can explain what the results mean, discuss options, and support you emotionally as you decide on next steps. Genetic counselors are trained to help you understand complex medical information and make decisions that align with your values. They can also provide resources, such as support groups or advocacy organizations, to help you navigate the emotional and practical aspects of your journey.

Many families find that the additional information helps them plan for delivery, arrange for specialized neonatal care, or make personal decisions about pregnancy continuation. For example, if diagnostic testing confirms a chromosomal condition, you may choose to meet with a pediatric specialist to discuss what to expect after birth and what kind of care your baby might need. Some parents also find it helpful to connect with other families who have children with the same condition, as they can offer firsthand insights and support.

It’s also common to feel a mix of relief and anxiety during this phase. Remember that a high‑risk screen does not guarantee a diagnosis; about 80‑90 % of high‑risk screens turn out normal after confirmatory testing. Even if the diagnosis is confirmed, many chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome, are associated with fulfilling lives and strong family bonds. The key is to take things one step at a time and give yourself permission to feel whatever emotions arise.

Whatever path you choose, keep a written copy of your screening numbers, your provider’s interpretation, and any follow‑up plans. Having that record helps you stay organized and ensures that every member of your care team is on the same page. It’s also a good idea to bring a trusted friend or family member to appointments, as they can help you process the information and ask questions you might not think of in the moment.

How family history and previous pregnancies influence your risk

While the combined screen uses maternal age, blood markers, and NT measurement as its core inputs, a personal or family history of chromosomal abnormalities can shift the baseline risk. For example, a mother who previously had a child with Down syndrome has a higher recurrence risk—approximately 1 % for a second pregnancy—than the general population risk. This is because some chromosomal conditions are caused by genetic factors that can recur in subsequent pregnancies, such as a balanced translocation in one of the parents.

Genetic counselors often incorporate this background information when interpreting your screen. If you have a known familial translocation (a rearranged chromosome that can be passed on), the standard algorithm may underestimate your true risk, prompting earlier or more intensive testing. For example, a parent with a balanced translocation involving chromosome 21 has a higher chance of having a child with Down syndrome, even if the combined screen suggests a low risk. In such cases, diagnostic testing like CVS or amniocentesis is usually recommended to assess the fetal chromosomes directly.

Even if you have no known family history, having had a prior pregnancy with a chromosomal condition raises the odds slightly. In such cases, many providers recommend proceeding directly to NIPT or diagnostic testing rather than relying on the first‑trimester screen alone, following guidance from ACOG and the NICE pathway for high‑risk groups. This is because the combined screen’s accuracy may be lower in these situations, and the emotional stakes are often higher.

It’s also important to consider other genetic conditions that may run in your family, even if they’re not detected by the combined screen. For example, if you or your partner have a family history of conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or spinal muscular atrophy, your provider may recommend carrier screening to assess your risk of passing these conditions to your baby. Carrier screening can be done through a simple blood test and can provide valuable information for family planning.

Talking about screening results with your partner and support network

Screening results, especially high‑risk ones, can feel like a heavy secret to carry alone. Sharing the news with your partner, family, or close friends can provide emotional relief and practical help. When you discuss the numbers, try to frame the information in the same way your clinician did—emphasizing that the result is a probability, not a certainty. Avoid using absolute language like “the baby has Down syndrome” until you have a definitive diagnosis.

Many couples find that preparing a short “talking points” list before a conversation helps them stay focused. Include the exact risk estimate, what it means in plain language, and the next steps you’re considering (e.g., NIPT, counseling). This approach reduces the likelihood of miscommunication and lets your support system ask informed questions. For example, you might say: “The screening showed a 1 in 150 chance of Down syndrome. That means there’s a 99.3% chance the baby doesn’t have it, but we’re going to do NIPT to get more clarity.”

If you feel overwhelmed, consider writing down your feelings first. A brief journal entry can clarify what you need from your loved ones—whether it’s reassurance, space, or assistance with appointments. Remember, it’s okay to set boundaries and ask for the type of support that feels most helpful. Some people may react with fear or unsolicited advice, while others may struggle to understand the nuances of the results. It’s okay to say, “I don’t need advice right now—I just need you to listen.”

If you’re part of a couple, it’s also important to check in with each other about how you’re processing the news. Partners may react differently—one might feel more anxious, while the other feels more optimistic. These differences are normal, but they can sometimes lead to misunderstandings if they’re not acknowledged. Try to create space for each other’s feelings without judgment. You might even consider attending a genetic counseling session together, as it can provide a neutral space to discuss your concerns and align on next steps.

Cost, insurance coverage, and access considerations

In the United States, most private insurers cover the combined first‑trimester screen when it’s ordered by a qualified provider, following the Affordable Care Act’s preventive services mandate. However, coverage can vary for additional testing like NIPT or diagnostic procedures, and out‑of‑pocket costs may still apply. The FDA’s guidance on NIPT emphasizes that insurers should consider these tests as medically necessary when a high‑risk screen is reported, but some plans may require prior authorization or impose cost-sharing requirements.

In the United Kingdom, the NHS provides the combined screen free of charge as part of routine prenatal care. If you opt for NIPT, it may be offered at no cost if you meet specific high‑risk criteria; otherwise, it is usually a self‑pay service. The NHS also offers genetic counseling at no charge for anyone with an abnormal result, which can be a valuable resource for families navigating complex decisions.

If cost is a concern, talk to your provider or hospital billing office early. Many clinics have financial counselors who can help you navigate insurance appeals or locate patient assistance programs for NIPT and other services. Some NIPT companies also offer financial aid or payment plans for families who qualify. In the UK, you can discuss your options with your midwife or GP, who can help you access NHS-funded services or explore self-pay alternatives if needed.

Access to screening can also be influenced by geographic and systemic factors. In rural areas or underserved communities, finding a provider trained in nuchal translucency scanning or accessing genetic counseling services may be more challenging. Telehealth options, such as virtual genetic counseling, can help bridge this gap, but they may not be available everywhere. If you’re facing barriers to care, don’t hesitate to ask your provider for help finding resources or alternative solutions. Organizations like the March of Dimes and the Genetic Support Foundation also offer directories of providers and support services to help you navigate the system.

Doctor’s note

From our medical team: First‑trimester screening provides valuable risk information, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. If you receive a high‑risk result, take a breath and schedule a follow‑up with your provider or a genetic counselor. They’ll walk you through the statistical nuances, explain what each test can tell you, and help you decide on further testing that aligns with your values and circumstances. Remember, most high-risk screens turn out to be false positives, and even if a diagnosis is confirmed, many families go on to have healthy, happy pregnancies. You’re not alone in this journey, and there are resources and support systems available to help you every step of the way.

Myth vs. fact

Myth: A high‑risk first‑trimester screen means the baby