A member asked:

How early can doctors determine if a fetus has any birth defects from medications? and what test should be preformed ?

5 doctors weighed in across 3 answers

Depends on situation: Every newborn should have a thorough exam at birth looking for transient distortions caused by uterine compression, disruptions from intrauterine events, or abnormalities from whatever cause. If mom was on a specific medication, the sometimes hidden effects can be specifically looked for by those aware of the possibilities. There is no one test or group of tests.

Answered 10/31/2012

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Birth defects: It will depend on what organ of the body the defect will be located. A fetal ultrasound can do that for you.

Answered 9/28/2016

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Dr. Johanna Fricke answered

Specializes in Pediatrics - Developmental and Behavioral

Try not to stress!: Fus & fetal cardiac echo in the 2nd trimester show some anomalies caused by early exposures, as organs start forming as early as 3 weeks' conceptual age. Screenings of maternal serum in the 1st & 2nd trimester help define some risks. Some meds change the function of a gene, but not it's structure. Your OB & prenatal genetic counselor will advise you of risks & if more invasive tests are warranted.

Answered 6/10/2014

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