What tests do we carry out?

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Combined screening for congenital defects and pregnancy complications at 13 weeks

It is one of the basic tools for detecting foetal birth defects. This test involves a blood sample (biochemical screening: PAPP-A, f-ß hCG, PlGF) in the 10th week and a detailed ultrasound scan of the foetus in the 13th week of pregnancy – an examination of so-called markers of chromosomal abnormalities (nuchal translucency, nasal bone and others) and the morphology of the foetal organ systems. Based on these examinations and other data (medical history, blood pressure measurements), your risk of the foetus having a genetic abnormality (Down’s, Edwards’ or Patau’s syndrome) is calculated with an accuracy of around 90%; at the same time, up to 50% of foetal structural abnormalities can be detected. At the same time, the risk of developing serious pregnancy complications (pre-eclampsia, foetal growth restriction, or even preterm birth) is calculated. If the test result is positive, further steps will be recommended (genetic consultation, non-invasive test, invasive examination). In the event of a positive screening result for pre-eclampsia or foetal growth restriction, it is advisable to take acetylsalicylic acid (e.g. Anopyrin/Stacyl/Godasal) as soon as possible, as this can reduce the risk by up to 62%.

The combined test is not covered by public health insurance. Our price for the complete test, including a photograph, is 1,500 CZK. You may claim a refund from your health insurance provider.

Detailed morphological examination of the foetus at 20–22 weeks

Another important examination for detecting structural congenital foetal defects in particular is the scan carried out around the 20th week of pregnancy. Serious structural – morphological defects occur in around 2–3% of all pregnancies. A detailed foetal examination in weeks 20–22 can detect up to 90% of these defects. The success of their detection depends not only on the experience of the examining doctor and the quality of the ultrasound machine, but also on the pregnant woman’s physical constitution (obesity, scars, etc.), the position of the foetus, and the amount of amniotic fluid.

The examination is not covered by health insurance; our fee is 1,000 CZK. If you underwent the Combined Test in the first trimester at our clinic, you pay only 500 CZK. You may claim a refund from your health insurance provider.

Foetal morphology and biometry in weeks 30–32

During this week, we also focus on foetal morphology, perform biometric measurements and, where indicated, Doppler examinations.

If you have a referral from your registered gynaecologist, you do not pay for the examination.

Ultrasound screening for foetal growth restriction at 36 weeks

In the third trimester, we consider it very important to assess foetal growth, including Doppler examinations (blood flow) around week 36. This examination can identify foetuses at risk of late growth restriction, usually due to placental insufficiency. Management of these pregnancies (further monitoring, decisions regarding the timing and method of delivery, etc.) can prevent serious complications before or during the birth itself. This examination is usually carried out during the first antenatal appointment.

If you have a referral from your registered gynaecologist, you do not need to pay for the scan.

3D/4D ultrasound

This is a commercial imaging of the foetus; it is therefore not a clinical examination intended to detect congenital defects. We usually perform it between the 25th and 30th week of pregnancy, but under favourable conditions it can also be carried out within a wider timeframe. Whilst a 3D scan provides only a static three-dimensional image of the foetus, a 4D scan is a dynamic three-dimensional image capturing the foetus in motion. During the scan, a recording is made onto a data storage device and several 3D photographs are taken.

The scan is not covered by public health insurance. Our price for the scan is 1,000 CZK, including a USB stick and several photographs.