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 06 July 2008 00:59 BST

Pregnant women 'need screening risks and benefits info'

Wednesday, 26 Mar 2008 08:10
Pregnant woman need advice on what tests can be carried out and why

Health In Focus 

Midwives and doctors should give pregnant women evidence-based information on the risks and benefits of screening tests, according to new guidelines.

The recommendations from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) say the information should give women the details and support they need to make decisions about their care.

All women will be given information about why screening tests are carried out and what other decisions testing might lead to, and be able to discuss their concerns and ask questions.

Nice advises that screening for sickle cell diseases and thalassaemias should ideally be offered to all women by ten weeks of pregnancy and the 'combined test' should be offered to screen for Down's syndrome between 11 weeks and 13 weeks, six days.

The health body also says screening for gestational diabetes using risk factors should be undertaken in all women.

"Having a baby is one of the most important times in a woman's life and healthcare professionals want to make sure this is a good and safe experience," said Nice deputy chief executive Dr Gillian Leng.

"This newly updated guideline will ensure that health professionals offer women the information and support they need to make decisions about their care that are right for them and their babies."

Dr Rhona Hughes, guideline development group chair, added: "This guideline respects that it is a woman's right to make her own decisions about her pregnancy, based on the best available information.

"For example she may accept or decline tests that are offered and her healthcare team will respect the decision she makes."

Jennifer Elliott, service user representative and guideline development group member, said the guideline "firmly places women at the centre of decision making about their care".

"By ensuring that women are informed about their pregnancy, they will feel less anxious and more likely to have a positive experience," she added.
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