Prenatal screenings

Early combined screening (11th–14th week of pregnancy)

Early combined screening is a standard and mandatory prenatal examination in early pregnancy used to assess the risk of fetal chromosomal abnormalities, primarily Down syndrome (trisomy 21), but also trisomies 18 and 13. This test represents the foundation of modern prenatal care and must have a clearly highlighted place on the landing page.

At Polyclinic Drinković, early combined screening is performed according to current international guidelines, with high diagnostic precision.

What early combined screening includes

• Detailed ultrasound examination of the fetus
• measurement of the nuchal translucency (NT)
• assessment of the nasal bone
• analysis of early fetal anatomy
• measurement of CRL and precise determination of gestational age
• biochemical blood test of the mother (PAPP-A and free β-hCG)
• computer calculation of individual risk

When it is performed

• exclusively between 11+0 and 13+6 weeks of pregnancy
• optimally within clearly defined time frames for maximum reliability of the findings

Why early combined screening is mandatory

• enables early detection of increased risk
• reduces the need for invasive procedures
• enables timely planning of further diagnostics (NIPT, CVS, amniocentesis)
• represents the gold standard of the first trimester

Who it is especially important for

• all pregnant women, regardless of age
• pregnant women older than 35
• positive family history
• previous pregnancies with chromosomal abnormalities
• pregnancies after assisted reproduction

What the examination looks like

• the examination lasts 20–30 minutes
• it is performed transabdominally, and if necessary transvaginally
• painless and completely safe
• findings and risk assessment on the same day

Related prenatal examinations

• pregnancy ultrasound – early pregnancy
• NIPT test (non-invasive prenatal test)
• fetal morphology ultrasound
• Color Doppler in pregnancy
• genetic counseling

You can book your appointment by calling 01 2321 970 or by filling out the contact form.