This information is about the screening tests you will be offered during your pregnancy and after your baby is born. It explains the different types of test and what the tests are looking for.
We hope this advice will help prepare you for discussions with your midwife or doctor so that you can ask the questions that are important to you.
It is your decision whether or not to have any of the tests described.
In this publication, we use the terms ‘woman’ and ‘women’ to refer to anyone able to become pregnant, including trans men. Trans men who are pregnant should be offered the same antenatal and newborn screening tests as other pregnant individuals.
Free printed copies of this leaflet are also provided for local screening providers to give to women who cannot access the internet. Screening services can view the full PDF of the printed leaflet and order printed copies on the APS online ordering portal (requires login).
Updated section 8 (Confidentiality) of the 'Introduction and summary animation' chapter.
3 July 2024
Added NHS England contact details for requesting alternative formats.
4 August 2022
Updating confidentiality section, replacing mention of Public Health England with NHS England.
17 June 2022
Changed the wording in the blood spot chapter to clarify in what circumstances a parent or carer may be contacted by researchers. Added a link to the NHS newborn blood spot screening code of practice for residual spots.
1 July 2021
Removed the non-NIPT version of the chapter for Down’s syndrome, Edwards’ syndrome and Patau’s syndrome.
19 April 2021
Added an updated chapter (and translated versions) for Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome and Patau's syndrome in pregnancy.
5 January 2021
Added subtitled animation videos to translated publications.
17 December 2020
Added English animations to screening tests section and updated genetic inheritance information in sickle cell screening section.