Final answer:
Ultrasounds are the safest and most common diagnostic tests for multiple gestations, with prenatal genetic diagnosis and immunochromatographic assays also being used. Ultrasounds are preferred for their safety as they do not involve ionizing radiation, unlike X-rays or CT scans.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Diagnostic Tests for Multiple Gestations
The most common diagnostic tests used for multiple gestations include ultrasounds, prenatal genetic diagnosis (PGD), and immunochromatographic assays. Ultrasounds are the safest and most preferred method for tracking fetal growth and development. PGD is a more invasive procedure used for screening human embryos during in vitro fertilization before implantation. It allows for the diagnosis and selection of embryos. Immunochromatographic assays, like pregnancy test strips, detect the presence of human chorionic gonadotrophin in urine. These tests offer a quick and non-invasive way to confirm pregnancy, including multiple gestations.
Ultrasounds are favored because they don't involve ionizing radiation, making them safe to use during pregnancy. Repeated exposure to techniques such as X-rays or CT scans, which involve ionizing radiation, can be harmful to the developing fetus. Hence, ultrasounds are the standard imaging modality used to monitor fetal development and diagnose multiple pregnancies.