Fetal anomalies
The UK NSC policy on Fetal anomaly screening in pregnancy
More Information
Around 700,000 women get pregnant in the UK every year. Over 95% of these pregnancies result in the birth of a healthy baby. However, in a few cases, there are problems affecting the baby's development. The screening tests offered in pregnancy are either ultrasound scans or blood tests or a combination of both. They are used to check for specific physical abnormalities and conditions. The screening tests are not guaranteed to find all problems.
» Read more about fetal anomaly screening on NHS Choices
Policy Position
All NHS Trusts must ensure that they offer a dating scan, and an 18+0 - 20+6 week anomaly ultrasound scan, in line with NICE and UK NSC recommendations.
This policy was reviewed in Mar 2010 but no significant changes were made. It is due to be considered again in 2013/14, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Screening in the UK
Compare how screening is offered across the UK.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
An HTA systematic review (the SURUSS report) of second trimester ultrasound screening found some advantage to a scan before 24 weeks.
Health Technology Assessment 2003; Vol. 7: No. 11. First and second trimester antenatal screening for Down’s syndrome: the results of the Serum, Urine and Ultrasound Screening Study (SURUSS) (Wald et al)
Health Technology Assessment 1998; Vol. 2: No. 1. Antenatal screening for Down's syndrome. (Wald et al)
See also:
National Collaborating Centre for Women’s and Children’s Health. Commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. Antenatal care: routine care for the healthy pregnant woman. CG62: full guidance. March 2008 (corrected June 2008).
Stakeholders
The British Medical Ultrasound Society
Royal College of General Practitioners
Royal College of Midwives
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
The Society of Radiographers
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
