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

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What are Antenatal Screening Tests for Down's, Edwards' and Patau's Syndromes?

These antenatal screening tests assess the likelihood that a developing baby has:

• Down's syndrome (Trisomy 21).
• Edwards' syndrome (Trisomy 18).
• Patau's syndrome (Trisomy 13).

The screening combines information such as maternal age, ultrasound findings and blood test results to calculate the probability of the baby having one of these conditions.

A screening result does not provide a diagnosis. Individuals with a higher chance screening result may be offered further diagnostic testing to obtain more definitive information.

What to Expect During Screening

The screening process depends on the stage of pregnancy.

Depending on when screening is performed, it may include:

• An ultrasound scan, which may include measurement of the nuchal translucency (the fluid-filled space at the back of the baby's neck).
• A maternal blood test.
• Review of your pregnancy history and expected due date.
• Calculation of an individual screening result based on established assessment methods.

Your healthcare professional will explain:

• The purpose of the screening.
• What the results may mean.
• The limitations of screening tests.
• Available options if further testing is offered.

Participation in screening is entirely voluntary.

Who May Provide Antenatal Screening?

Antenatal screening may be provided by appropriately qualified healthcare professionals, including:

• Midwives.
• Obstetricians.
• Sonographers.
• Specialist fetal medicine teams.
• Maternity nurses.
• Other members of the multidisciplinary maternity team.

Professional responsibilities vary depending on the stage of assessment and the healthcare setting.

Who May Be Offered Antenatal Screening?

Screening is routinely offered to individuals who are pregnant as part of antenatal care in many healthcare settings.

Individuals may choose whether to accept or decline screening after receiving information about:

• The conditions being screened for.
• The benefits and limitations of screening.
• Possible next steps following the results.
• Further diagnostic testing if indicated.

The decision to undergo screening is a personal choice and should be based on informed consent.

Understanding Screening Results

Screening results are usually reported as either a higher chance or lower chance result.

A higher chance result does not mean that the baby has Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome or Patau's syndrome. It indicates that further assessment or diagnostic testing may be offered.

A lower chance result reduces the likelihood of these conditions but does not completely exclude them.

If diagnostic testing is offered, your healthcare professional will explain the available options, potential benefits, limitations and any associated risks before you decide whether to proceed.

Considerations

Before deciding whether to have antenatal screening, you may wish to consider:

• What information you hope to gain from screening.
• The difference between screening and diagnostic tests.
• The possible outcomes of screening.
• Whether you would wish to consider further diagnostic testing if a higher chance result is identified.
• Any questions or concerns you would like to discuss with your healthcare professional before making your decision.

Your healthcare professional can provide balanced information to support informed decision-making.

Choosing a Healthcare Professional

When selecting a healthcare professional or clinic offering antenatal screening, you may wish to consider:

• Their professional qualifications and registration.
• Their experience providing antenatal screening services.
• Whether screening is performed in accordance with recognised maternity care guidelines.
• Access to specialist fetal medicine services if required.
• Appointment availability and accessibility.

You may also wish to discuss the screening process and any questions you have before your appointment.

Summary

Antenatal screening tests for Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome and Patau's syndrome estimate the likelihood that a developing baby has one of these genetic conditions. These tests are screening assessments rather than diagnostic tests, and participation is voluntary.

If you are considering antenatal screening, discussing the available options with your midwife, obstetrician or another appropriately qualified healthcare professional can help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances and preferences.

Find a Healthcare Professional

Use My Health Assistant to search and compare healthcare professionals offering antenatal screening services. View professional profiles, compare available services and contact providers directly to help you make an informed decision.

Health Information Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is intended for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Always seek the advice of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional, midwife or maternity team regarding your pregnancy or before making decisions about screening or your healthcare.

Antenatal screening tests estimate the likelihood of certain genetic conditions but do not provide a diagnosis. If a screening result indicates a higher chance of Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome or Patau's syndrome, further diagnostic testing may be offered to provide additional information.

My Health Assistant is an online platform that helps people search for and compare independent healthcare professionals and healthcare services. We do not provide healthcare services, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Healthcare professionals listed on the platform are independent providers who are solely responsible for the services they provide. Inclusion on the platform does not constitute a recommendation, endorsement or guarantee by My Health Assistant.