Our Services

First Trimester and Integrated Genetic Screening with Nuchal Translucency

This prenatal test provides insight into a baby’s risk of certain conditions, in particular Down syndrome and trisomy 18. The screening is typically performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. The nuchal translucency portion of the screening entails an ultrasound exam to assess the size of the clear space in the tissue at the back of the baby’s neck.

Amniocentesis

This prenatal procedure is typically performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy and provides insight into your baby’s genetic makeup. The test entails removing amniotic fluid from the uterus.

Genetic and Perinatal Counseling

After receiving the results of the first trimester screening and amniocentesis, the physicians at Premiere Perinatal will work to provide a better understanding of birth defects and help families make decisions about the pregnancy. Genetic counseling is especially helpful for those who:

• Are 35 or older
• Already have a child with a birth defect
• Have had two or more miscarriages or babies who died in infancy
• Have been told their pregnancy may be at an increased risk for complications or birth defects

First and Second Trimester Ultrasounds

The first ultrasound, also known as a sonogram, will be taken to confirm the pregnancy, generally around six to eight weeks. The test will be taken transvaginally and is painless. The test entails listening for the baby’s heartbeat and estimating the age by measuring its length, which will provide a more accurate picture of the due date. The physician will also be able to tell if the pregnancy involves multiples and will rule out an ectopic pregnancy.

The second trimester ultrasound generally takes place between 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. It is performed to ensure the baby’s organs are developing properly and is the most thorough checkup before the baby is born. The placenta will be examined and the amniotic fluid level will be measured. The physician will also check for any birth defects. Additionally, if you want to learn the sex of your baby, the tech will be able to reveal that detail with more than 95 percent accuracy.

Diabetic Management

Premiere Perinatal Associates of Fort Lauderdale is well equipped to help women who have Type 1 or 2 diabetes manage their pregnancy. The management of blood glucose levels is the key to reducing the likelihood of complications.

High Risk and Chronic Disease Management in Pregnancy

Those who suffer from a known chronic disease are more likely to experience life-threatening complications during pregnancy. Chronic diseases include such conditions as hypertension, heart disease and asthma. Premiere Perinatal Associates can help provide management of these and other illnesses to ensure your bundle of joy arrives as planned.

Multiples

The incidence of multiples pregnancies has significantly increased over the past 30 years. Since multiples are at a greater risk of developing complications, Premiere Perinatal Associates is prepared to provide the increased, hand-on care associated with multiples.

Biophysical Profiles

A biophysical profile is a test that combines a non-stress test with an ultrasound to assess the health of the fetus. The non-stress test evaluates the fetal heart rate in response to the fetus’ movements, while the ultrasound analyzes fetal breathing movements, fetal movements, fetal tone and amniotic fluid volume. The profile is generally performed in the final trimester of pregnancy

NST’s

The non-stress test evaluates the fetal heart rate in response to the fetus’ movements and is generally performed after 28 weeks gestation. The non-stress test can indicate if the baby is not receiving enough oxygen because of placental or umbilical cord issues. It can also be an indicator of fetal distress.

3D Imaging Ultrasounds

Multiple two-dimensional images are taken at different angles and assembled to create a three-dimensional rendering. Three-dimensional scans are generally not performed as part of routine prenatal exams, as they are often utilized to monitor something specific.

Paternal Testing

Fetal DNA testing can be done on the mother’s blood as early as eight weeks into the pregnancy. There is no risk to the baby, for only blood is collected from the mother without the need of an invasive test. A DNA profile can then be developed from the fetal cells, which float freely in the bloodstream of the pregnant mother, and compared to the DNA profile of the presumed father.