Learning that your pregnancy may be affected by a fetal anomaly can feel overwhelming, triggering feelings of anxiety, worry, and even shock. While fetal anomalies affect about one out of every 33 births in the United States, the experience can feel very isolating, leaving you confused, scared, and wondering what to do next.
Fetal anomaly testing at Eve Medical of Miami provides you with the information you need to feel more in control, helping confirm whether a specific condition is present so our team can work with you to map out your next steps. Here’s what to expect.
Our team works with doctors throughout the area to coordinate testing aimed at diagnosing the type and severity of fetal anomalies, using lab testing and advanced imaging.
For many women, a high-resolution ultrasound is often the first step, providing detailed close-up images focused on evaluating fetal development, including development of key organs like the brain, spine, and heart.
Depending on your specific needs, we may use minimally invasive testing like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), a tiny biopsy of the placenta. These tests analyze genetic material to detect chromosomal or genetic conditions, providing significantly more information than a regular screening test.
Testing is performed in a private room with personalized care coordinated by our medical director. We’ll also assign a member of our nursing team to support you through your visit.
Once a fetal anomaly is confirmed, next steps depend on the specific condition, its severity, and your own individual circumstances, which may include spiritual or cultural considerations in addition to health considerations and long-term planning.
While some anomalies may be manageable with specialized care throughout pregnancy and delivery (and sometimes beyond), others may be associated with more serious quality of life issues or life-limiting concerns.
At this stage, you’ll meet with our medical care team to discuss your testing results in clear terms and to review possible options moving forward. Our goal is to help you feel supported and informed every step of the way.
It’s also important to note that our team is skilled in handling the emotional impact associated with dire fetal anomaly diagnoses. We treat every patient with sensitivity and compassion, providing truly personalized care to help you navigate what can be a very difficult and uncertain time.
The discovery of a fetal anomaly can feel devastating, but you don’t have to go through the process on your own. With the right testing combined with compassionate care, our team helps you and your partner make informed decisions with clarity and assurance.
If you’ve been referred for further evaluation or have concerns about your pregnancy, we’re here to help. To learn more, request an appointment with our team at Eve Medical of Miami in Miami, Florida, today.
