Combined First Trimester Screening (CFTS) Gold Coast
Combined First Trimester Screening, often referred to as CFTS, is a screening test performed in early pregnancy to assess the chance of certain chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13). At Haven Ultrasound, our Combined First Trimester Screening on the Gold Coast combines a detailed nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound with your maternal blood test results to calculate this risk.
Your CFTS appointment at Haven also includes pre-eclampsia screening (often referred to as PE screening), giving you and your referring doctor a fuller picture of your pregnancy in one visit, rather than attending separate appointments.
CONSULTATIONS
What is Combined First Trimester Screening?
Combined First Trimester Screening (CFTS) is a non-invasive prenatal screening assessment offered to all pregnant women between 11 weeks and 13 weeks 6 days of pregnancy. It combines the results of a nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound with a maternal blood test to generate an individualised risk estimate for the following chromosomal conditions:
- Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
- Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18)
- Patau syndrome (trisomy 13)
CFTS is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. A result indicating an increased risk does not confirm a chromosomal condition – it provides information to support calm, informed discussions about further assessment options, such as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) or diagnostic procedures. Your referring clinician will guide you through these options with clarity and care, based on your individual circumstances.
Haven Ultrasound also offers pre-eclampsia screening on the Gold Coast (PE screening Gold Coast) as part of a comprehensive first trimester assessment, using uterine artery Doppler measurements, maternal blood pressure, and blood markers to assess individual risk. Please speak with your referring clinician about whether pre-eclampsia screening Gold Coast is appropriate for your pregnancy.
Why Choose CFTS on the Gold Coast at Haven Ultrasound?
Haven Ultrasound is a specialist women’s ultrasound practice with a dedicated focus on pregnancy imaging and first trimester assessments. We understand that attending a screening appointment can bring mixed emotions, and our Gold Coast clinic provides a calm, warm, and private environment where you feel genuinely supported throughout.
At Haven Ultrasound on the Gold Coast:
- NT measurements are performed to Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF) standards by trained and accredited sonographers who genuinely care about your experience.
- Our team has specialist experience in first trimester ultrasound, prenatal screening, and pre-eclampsia (PE) screening Gold Coast.
- We use high-resolution GE Voluson technology to ensure the clearest and most reassuring imaging quality.
- Results are communicated promptly and clearly to your GP or obstetrician to support your ongoing antenatal care.
- We can also discuss NIPT testing as a complementary or alternative screening option, so you always feel fully informed about your choices.
Why Have Combined First Trimester Screening?
CFTS on the Gold Coast is offered as part of routine antenatal care and provides expectant parents with meaningful, personalised information during the first trimester. There are several reasons your GP or obstetrician may recommend Combined First Trimester Screening:
- To obtain a personalised, age-adjusted risk estimate for common chromosomal conditions early in pregnancy, giving you clarity and confidence as you plan your care.
- As part of a broader first trimester assessment that also evaluates fetal anatomy and checks for structural findings appropriate to this stage of pregnancy.
- To inform thoughtful decisions about further prenatal screening or testing options, including NIPT testing or invasive diagnostic procedures such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.
- To establish an accurate gestational age and estimated due date based on ultrasound measurements.
- To identify multiple pregnancies and assess chorionicity, which is important for planning the safest and most personalised antenatal care journey.
- To assess individual risk for pre-eclampsia through PE screening Gold Coast, when recommended by your referring clinician.
CFTS is a personal decision, and you are never alone in making it. Your referring clinician is the best person to advise whether Combined First Trimester Screening is appropriate for your pregnancy and individual circumstances.
At your Combined First Trimester Screening appointment on the Gold Coast, you can look forward to a calm, caring, and supportive experience:
- A specialist sonographer will perform the nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound, carefully measuring the NT space and assessing first trimester fetal anatomy – taking the time to ensure you understand each step along the way.
- The NT measurement, together with your maternal blood test results (collected separately via a pathology provider), maternal age, and gestational age, are used to calculate an individualised risk estimate.
- Many expectant parents find seeing their baby on screen a truly wonderful and moving moment – and our team will be warmly present with you throughout.
- You will be cared for in a respectful, private, and welcoming environment, with clear and patient-friendly explanations provided at every stage of your appointment.
- Scan images and a detailed report are provided to your referring clinician following the appointment, ensuring seamless continuity of your care.
Haven Ultrasound works collaboratively and warmly with your GP, obstetrician, or midwife to support the best possible continuity of your antenatal care. If you have any questions following your scan, our friendly team is always available and genuinely happy to help.
How to Book Your CFTS Appointment on the Gold Coast
To book your Combined First Trimester Screening Gold Coast appointment at Haven Ultrasound:
- Book online via our Book Online page at a time that suits you.
- Contact our friendly Gold Coast clinic team directly to arrange a convenient appointment time – we are always happy to help.
- Ensure you have a valid referral from your GP, obstetrician, or maternity care provider before attending.
For more information about pregnancy screening and imaging options available at Haven Ultrasound, you may find our Pregnancy Ultrasound services page helpful. You can also learn more about NIPT testing as a complementary CFTS Gold Coast screening option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CFTS and NIPT?
Combined First Trimester Screening (CFTS) combines a nuchal translucency ultrasound and a maternal blood test to produce a risk estimate for certain chromosomal conditions. It is available from around 11 weeks and is a population-level screening tool. Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a blood test that analyses cell-free fetal DNA circulating in maternal blood and can provide more specific risk information for chromosomal conditions. NIPT is generally available from 10 weeks of pregnancy. Your referring clinician can advise which screening option or combination of options is most appropriate for your pregnancy.
When should Combined First Trimester Screening be performed?
CFTS is performed between 11 weeks and 13 weeks 6 days of pregnancy, when the fetal crown-rump length (CRL) is between 45mm and 84mm. Booking your appointment within this specific gestational window is important to ensure the NT measurement can be accurately obtained. If you are unsure of your gestational age, our team can assist with confirming this at the time of your appointment.
Is a referral required for CFTS at Haven Ultrasound?
Yes. A referral from your GP, obstetrician, or maternity care provider is required to attend a scan at Haven Ultrasound. A valid referral also allows you to access any applicable Medicare rebates for the ultrasound component of your Combined First Trimester Screening appointment. Please contact our reception team if you have questions about your referral.
What does the CFTS ultrasound involve?
The nuchal translucency ultrasound component of CFTS is performed abdominally in most cases. The sonographer measures the NT space at the back of the baby’s neck, assesses the nasal bone, evaluates first trimester fetal anatomy, checks the number of fetuses, and reviews the uterus and adnexa. The ultrasound is performed by a trained and accredited sonographer using high-resolution equipment. In some cases, a transvaginal scan may be required to obtain the necessary measurements, particularly if the gestational age is at the earlier end of the recommended window.