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Understanding Antenatal Screening Test (Down's, Edwards', Patau's Syndrome): Causes, Types, and When to Seek Medical Help

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My Health Assistant helps you find trusted health professionals providing antenatal screening test services near you. These essential tests help detect chromosomal conditions such as Down’s, Edwards’, and Patau’s syndromes during pregnancy. We make it easy to connect with experienced providers who offer clear guidance, accurate testing, and compassionate care throughout your pregnancy.

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Understanding Antenatal Screening Test (Down’s, Edwards’, Patau’s Syndrome)

Antenatal screening tests are non-invasive medical services offered during pregnancy to assess the likelihood that a baby may be born with certain chromosomal conditions. These include:

Down’s Syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Edwards’ Syndrome (Trisomy 18)

Patau’s Syndrome (Trisomy 13)

These tests do not diagnose but indicate the level of risk, allowing parents to make informed decisions about further diagnostic testing if necessary.

 

What is Antenatal Screening Test?

This service involves two main types of screening:

Combined First Trimester Screening (10–14 weeks):

Blood test + ultrasound scan

Measures markers and nuchal translucency to assess risk

Quad Test (14–20 weeks, if missed earlier screening):

Blood test measuring four hormones/proteins

High-risk results may lead to offers for further diagnostic tests such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.

 

What to Expect During an Antenatal Screening Test

When accessing this service, you can expect:

A blood test, usually from your arm

An ultrasound scan to measure fluid at the back of the baby’s neck (nuchal translucency)

A detailed explanation of what the results mean

A follow-up plan if your results indicate increased risk

Support from a midwife or specialist if diagnostic testing is needed

All procedures are safe for both mother and baby and are usually performed in early to mid-pregnancy.

 

Who Conducts This Service

Antenatal screening is conducted by:

Midwives and sonographers

Obstetricians

Prenatal screening nurses

Lab technicians who process blood tests

Healthcare professionals listed through My Health Assistant are fully qualified, regulated, and experienced in maternal-fetal screening services.

 

Who Might Need This Service

This service near me is recommended for:

All pregnant women, regardless of age or health

Parents who want early information about their baby’s health

Women with a history of chromosomal conditions in the family

Those with a previous pregnancy affected by Down’s, Edwards’, or Patau’s syndrome

Screening is optional but highly encouraged to support informed choices.

 

Types of Antenatal Screening Tests

Depending on your stage of pregnancy, the service may include:

Combined Screening Test (10–14 weeks): ultrasound + blood test

Quad Test (14–20 weeks): blood test only

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): advanced private screening via maternal blood test

Diagnostic Testing: offered only after high-risk screening results (e.g., CVS, amniocentesis)

NIPT is highly accurate but may not be universally offered on the NHS—it’s often available through private providers.

 

Risks Associated with Antenatal Screening

Antenatal screening tests are safe and non-invasive. However:

Results may cause anxiety due to uncertainty

False positives or false negatives can occur

Follow-up diagnostic tests like CVS or amniocentesis carry a small risk of miscarriage (usually <1%)

Screening does not guarantee the baby is unaffected

Qualified providers will clearly explain results and options to reduce confusion and stress.

 

How to Choose the Right Health Professional

When choosing an antenatal screening service, look for:

Accreditation in prenatal testing and maternal care

Transparent information about test accuracy and options

Supportive communication and compassionate counselling

Access to follow-up services if needed

Convenience of clinic location and appointment times

My Health Assistant allows you to compare professionals and book a trusted screening service near me with confidence.

 

Summary

Antenatal screening for Down’s, Edwards’, and Patau’s syndromes is a vital pregnancy service offering early insights into your baby’s health. These tests help expectant parents make informed decisions and plan ahead if needed. With My Health Assistant, finding a reliable antenatal screening test service near me is easy—get accurate care, professional support, and peace of mind.