Safe alternatives to previously invasive testing methods now exist for Down's syndrome detection

New studies explain that by using a new DNA blood test, the old way of using invasive testing of pregnant women to determine whether or not the unborn child has Down’s syndrome is no longer necessary.

Known as Trisomy 21, Down’s syndrome is caused by having an additional 21st chromosome. It is a genetic disorder and causes developmental delays both mentally and physically for children.

Commonalities of Down’s syndrome include a certain group of facial characteristics as well as functional impairment.

Previously, women with risks of giving birth to Down’s syndrome child had to undergo risky and invasive testing where a doctor would insert a needle into the womb to get a sample of fluid or tissue to analyze.

However, new DNA sequencing tests have shown to be an effective replacement in up to 98 percent of cases where the invasive tests were previously required. Women who received the past risky tests also had a 1 in 100 chance of having a miscarriage.

Another benefit of the DNA testing is that there is no longer a necessity for doctors to analyze hormone levels of pregnant women before the testing, as was required before.

Concluding, researchers explain the DNA blood tests can accurately detect whether or not a baby has Down’s syndrome using non-invasive testing methods.