Health examination items and indicators of test tube babies
IVF refers to babies born under assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (ET). In order to ensure the healthy development of IVF, doctors will conduct a series of health examinations at different stages. The following will introduce in detail the health examination items and indicators of IVF from four aspects: fetal development, genetic disease screening, growth and development, and immune system.
Fetal development
After the success of IVF embryo transfer, doctors will conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of embryos.
First, about 14 days after embryo implantation, early pregnancy examination was carried out. The success of pregnancy was determined by the changes of serum progesterone and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels.
Then, 5 to 8 weeks after successful embryo implantation, the fetal heartbeat was checked. Confirm whether the fetus has normal heartbeat through ultrasonic detection, and evaluate the development of the embryo.
In addition, the cervical transparent layer (NT) was examined at 10-13 weeks. Ultrasonic examination was used to assess the thickness of the cervical hyaline layer to screen for the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
Genetic disease screening
In order to exclude the risk of IVF suffering from genetic diseases, doctors will conduct corresponding genetic disease screening.
A common genetic disease screening is Down syndrome screening. At about 12 weeks, the risk of Down's syndrome was assessed by ultrasonic examination of the thickness of the fetal cervical hyaline layer, combined with maternal blood progesterone, estriol and hCG levels.
In addition, other genetic diseases can be screened, such as thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, etc. The doctor will decide whether to carry out the corresponding genetic disease screening according to the family history and disease risk.
For high-risk groups, gene testing can also be carried out to exclude the risk of some common genetic diseases.
Growth and development
After the birth of test tube babies, doctors will evaluate and monitor their growth and development.
The first is physical development assessment. The doctor will measure the length, weight and head circumference of the baby and compare them with normal values to assess whether the baby's physical development is normal.
In addition, screening hearing tests will be carried out. The normal hearing of infants was assessed by means of auditory reflex, observation of otorhinolaryngologists and hearing screening equipment.
For preterm infants or low birth weight infants, developmental delay screening is also carried out to assess the development of their motor, language and cognitive abilities.
immune system
The immune system of IVF also needs special attention and examination.
In a few months after birth, doctors will vaccinate the baby to improve its immunity.
In addition, the doctor will evaluate the immune function. The normal function of the infant's immune system is evaluated by checking the white blood cell count, immunoglobulin level, lymphocyte subsets and other indicators.
If necessary, some special immune function tests can be carried out, such as hemolysis test, lymphocyte transformation test, etc.
Summary
The health examination items and indicators of IVF mainly include four aspects: fetal development, genetic disease screening, growth and development, and immune system. Through relevant inspection and screening, potential problems can be found and dealt with as early as possible to ensure the healthy development of IVF. When carrying out these examinations, it is necessary to select a formal and reliable medical institution, follow the doctor's advice, and carry out corresponding treatment and follow-up in a timely manner.
