Screening Tests

• Ultrasound Scan

  • Usually carried out in week 20 of pregnancy
  • Checks for major physical abnormalities in the baby
• Nuchal Fold Translucency Test

  • Offered between 11-13 weeks of pregnancy
  • Measures skin fold on the back of baby’s neck (thicker in babies with down’s)
  • Pros - no risk of miscarriage
  • Cons - It is not conclusive
• Triple Test

  • Offered between 14-20 weeks of pregnancy
  • Tests for Downs Edward’s and Palau’s syndrome
• Chronic villus sampling (CVS)

  • Offered between 11-14 weeks of pregnancy if a family has a history of genetic disorders
  • Done by cells being removed from the placenta via a needle through mother’s abdomen or tube inserted through cervix.
  • Pro- Results are usually known within 7-10 days
  • Con - 1-2% risk of miscarriage
• Amniocentesis

  • Offered between 15-18th week of pregnancy and to women over the age of 37
  • Is performed by a needle being passed to remove a small sample of amniotic fluid for testing.
  • Pro - Parents have a choice terminate
  • Con - Risk of miscarriage
• NIPT Blood Test

  • Carried out at week 10 of pregnancy and if offered if risk of abnormality is high.
  • A simple blood screening that analyses the baby’s DNA
  • Pro - does not carry risk of miscarriage
  • Con - NHS Hospitals do not offer