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• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN26 >> She described the screening process as a 'Pandora's box' where one decision leads to another.

Routine screening experiences, including nuchal scan.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN01 >> Screening felt like something everybody did rather than a choice.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences. Had to spend time in hospital late in pregnancy for investigation of bleeding.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN34 >> She trusted her doctor's advice that she should have screening.

Routine screening experiences. Healthy baby born 2002.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN27 >> She did not feel she had much choice about screening and would have liked more information and explanation.

Healthy pregnancy, routine screening. Some blood test results came back abnormal. Levels of information and choice have been a concern.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN22 >> Deciding to have screening is a real choice, which may involve you in further decision-making.

Declined all screening except 20-week anomaly scan in two most recent pregnancies.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN25 >> She was optimistic that screening would be reassuring and give helpful information.

Two normal pregnancies. Nuchal scan not available locally, so had blood screening. Unable to have 20-week scan in first pregnancy because of staff shortages.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN19 >> She knew scans were not just for parents to see their baby, and felt doctors had a responsibility to explain the purpose.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences, including combined nuchal scan and blood test.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN37 >> She would encourage parents to think carefully why they are having screening and what they would do if an abnormality is found.

Couple declined screening on principle in previous two and current pregnancy. Had a scan at around 20 weeks in two pregnancies for dating purposes only.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Baby's condition detected after birth >> Interview AN12 >> Having blood tests and other kinds of screening is treated as routine.

Second child born with Down's syndrome after low risk nuchal scan results, and no problems detected at 20-week scan. Home birth. Daughter now aged two.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN18 >> She decided not to have the triple test in her first pregnancy because she thought she was too young to be at risk of Down's syndrome.

Spina bifida detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy - some family history of the condition. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN01 >> They had not fully appreciated what the 20-week scan was looking for.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences. Had to spend time in hospital late in pregnancy for investigation of bleeding.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN37 >> He feels people should be more fully informed about the purpose of screening and that it could lead to termination.

Couple declined screening on principle in previous two and current pregnancy. Had a scan at around 20 weeks in two pregnancies for dating purposes only.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN14 >> They postponed discussion of what they might do about their screening results until they had further information to discuss.

Seven and a half months pregnant with twins conceived by IVF. Has had scans throughout pregnancy; nuchal translucency scan had to be repeated because of the babies' position.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN25 >> They did not discuss in advance what they would do with the results of screening, and were waiting until they had further information.

Two normal pregnancies. Nuchal scan not available locally, so had blood screening. Unable to have 20-week scan in first pregnancy because of staff shortages.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN05 >> She did not want to worry about something being wrong unless it actually happened.

4 months pregnant. Normal screening results. One scan in early pregnancy, no other scans planned. Alphafetoprotein results not yet received.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN05 >> Her pregnancy pack included a sample container for cystic fibrosis screening, but did not explain what it was for.

4 months pregnant. Normal screening results. One scan in early pregnancy, no other scans planned. Alphafetoprotein results not yet received.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN26 >> She looked for information on the internet but found it too technical. You need to know what questions to ask.

Routine screening experiences, including nuchal scan.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN25 >> Her midwife's discussion of screening and possible consequences was excellent.

Two normal pregnancies. Nuchal scan not available locally, so had blood screening. Unable to have 20-week scan in first pregnancy because of staff shortages.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN05 >> Even though her background meant she was well informed about healthcare, she would have liked more face-to-face discussion of screening.

4 months pregnant. Normal screening results. One scan in early pregnancy, no other scans planned. Alphafetoprotein results not yet received.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN13 >> The written information was better in her current pregnancy than her first and the midwife discussed it carefully with her.

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages; following nuchal scan results they considered amniocentesis and decided against. Baby born healthy, although mother had obstetric cholestasis in late pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN19 >> Looking back she felt more explanation of the purpose of the 20-week anomaly scan would have been helpful.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences, including combined nuchal scan and blood test.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN23 >> Written information from her midwife was helpful, but she still had unanswered questions.

After initial contact with NHS, decided to have antenatal care in France, including 3 scans with normal results. Baby born 2 months early in England.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN28 >> Written information can seem overwhelming, but people can understand the difference between screening and diagnosis if it is explained clearly.

Healthy pregnancy after an early miscarriage. Interviewee has a brother with severe learning disabilities and describes having genetic screening and counselling in early pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN14 >> It was not always clear what different blood tests were for, but it matters less if the results are normal.

Seven and a half months pregnant with twins conceived by IVF. Has had scans throughout pregnancy; nuchal translucency scan had to be repeated because of the babies' position.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN24 >> Parents need to know early enough about nuchal scans to be able to book privately if necessary.

Family history of Down's syndrome. Had amniocentesis in both pregnancies to rule out Down's syndrome, even though nuchal scan results were low risk.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN11 >> She felt professionals she met in the UK gave more time to explain and listen than some staff she met in the US.

Normal first pregnancy; screening carried out in US, before return to UK when 6 months pregnant. Declined amniocentesis (offered as standard). Compares US and UK.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN19 >> Staff had informed her clearly about screening options but she knew other women who had been less well informed.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences, including combined nuchal scan and blood test.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN09 >> It is time-consuming for health professionals to inform people fully, especially about all the conditions being screened for.

Routine screening in two pregnancies - declined screening for Down's syndrome. Family history of hydrocephalus led to early prenatal counselling but no risk identified.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN01 >> She found one helpful book with factual information. Talking to friends can make you more anxious.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences. Had to spend time in hospital late in pregnancy for investigation of bleeding.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN08 >> Books can be helpful, especially in a first pregnancy, but they can also make you anxious.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences. Private care throughout pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN27 >> For first-time mothers it is difficult to know what questions to ask and what information you need.

Healthy pregnancy, routine screening. Some blood test results came back abnormal. Levels of information and choice have been a concern.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN05 >> Nuchal scans were not available on the NHS locally and she did not feel the need to have one privately.

4 months pregnant. Normal screening results. One scan in early pregnancy, no other scans planned. Alphafetoprotein results not yet received.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN26 >> Seeing her baby during the nuchal scan was wonderful but it was alarming that staff talked to each other, not to her.

Routine screening experiences, including nuchal scan.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN21 >> She had the combined nuchal scan and blood test privately, but found out only just in time that it was available.

Normal first pregnancy; some early scanning after bleeding in first trimester. Screening includes nuchal translucency scan and blood testing.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN19 >> They were impressed by the professionalism of staff carrying out their nuchal scan and felt well informed and reassured.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences, including combined nuchal scan and blood test.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN26 >> In her second pregnancy, she was anxious that the sonographer doing the nuchal scan seemed rushed. She needed more reassurance.

Routine screening experiences, including nuchal scan.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN14 >> In two repeat nuchal scans, she felt the consultant was much more communicative than the first person who scanned her.

Seven and a half months pregnant with twins conceived by IVF. Has had scans throughout pregnancy; nuchal translucency scan had to be repeated because of the babies' position.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN02 >> She grew anxious when the sonographer became silent during the nuchal scan, and was upset that the sonographer could not discuss the results.

1997 - nuchal scan and CVS confirmed Down's syndrome - decided to end the pregnancy. Has since had a healthy baby and is now pregnant again. Had CVS again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN06 >> He felt the local hospital needed to be better prepared to discuss the results of the nuchal scan with them.

Third pregnancy, after two miscarriages. Nuchal scan suggested problems; CVS ruled out Down's syndrome but heart problems identified by further scan. Baby born March 2003, successful surgery completed.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN30 >> They were asked to have a second scan but did not feel anxious about this at the time.

Down's syndrome suspected at nuchal scan. Couple declined amniocentesis and continued with the pregnancy. Further scans suggested heart problems (operated on successfully since baby's birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN08 >> The doctor in California who did her 20-week scan did not explain as well as her doctor in the UK.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences. Private care throughout pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN31 >> She would have liked her husband to be allowed in with her throughout the nuchal scan in her first pregnancy. They gradually realised something was wr

Problems detected in first pregnancy at nuchal scan - confirmed as Down's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Subsequent normal pregnancy and birth.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN17 >> She thought her baby's hydrocephalus may have been suspected at the nuchal scan in her first pregnancy but she was not told.

Hydrocephalus detected by 20-week scan and amniocentesis in first pregnancy. Felt the decision to end the pregnancy was rushed. Miscarriage and two healthy pregnancies since.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN26 >> It would be sensible for sonographers at the 20-week scan to check the woman is properly informed and explain how they will communicate.

Routine screening experiences, including nuchal scan.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN36 >> The nuchal scan reassured them, but with hindsight they felt they did not really understand the nature of screening and risk information.

Nuchal scan in first pregnancy gave low risk result, but anomaly scan at 21 weeks detected abnormalities, confirmed as Edwards' syndrome by amniocentesis. Couple decided to end the pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN05 >> The 12-week scan helped check for twins and was a moving experience. The sonographer explained everything.

4 months pregnant. Normal screening results. One scan in early pregnancy, no other scans planned. Alphafetoprotein results not yet received.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN32 >> She had no idea the 12-week dating scan could detect problems, and felt completely unprepared for the possibility of bad news in her first pregnancy.

Problems detected in first pregnancy at routine 12 week dating scan - confirmed as Edward's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN13 >> The information about what the 20-week scan was looking for was very thorough.

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages; following nuchal scan results they considered amniocentesis and decided against. Baby born healthy, although mother had obstetric cholestasis in late pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN11 >> The 20-week scan was a moving experience and the person doing the scan explained everything very helpfully.

Normal first pregnancy; screening carried out in US, before return to UK when 6 months pregnant. Declined amniocentesis (offered as standard). Compares US and UK.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN09 >> Her first 20-week scan was professional but brief. The second time she had a specialist midwife who made it a happy experience.

Routine screening in two pregnancies - declined screening for Down's syndrome. Family history of hydrocephalus led to early prenatal counselling but no risk identified.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN23 >> At her 20-week scan in France she was given detailed information and explanation. She and her husband were very reassured.

After initial contact with NHS, decided to have antenatal care in France, including 3 scans with normal results. Baby born 2 months early in England.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN08 >> She had not had much information about blood tests, but trusted that staff were acting in her interests.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences. Private care throughout pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN28 >> They had an anxious moment at the 20-week scan when the sonographer paused briefly. They felt he communicated honestly.

Healthy pregnancy after an early miscarriage. Interviewee has a brother with severe learning disabilities and describes having genetic screening and counselling in early pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN13 >> When staff spotted something unusual during the 20-week scan, she was very anxious and would have liked more immediate explanation.

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages; following nuchal scan results they considered amniocentesis and decided against. Baby born healthy, although mother had obstetric cholestasis in late pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN08 >> The results of her nuchal scan indicated a very low risk, which was reassuring.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences. Private care throughout pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN22 >> It must be difficult for the person doing the scan to check something they are unsure about if the woman is watching the screen throughout.

Declined all screening except 20-week anomaly scan in two most recent pregnancies.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN36 >> She did not really appreciate that the 20-week scan looks for particular conditions, despite reading the leaflets.

Nuchal scan in first pregnancy gave low risk result, but anomaly scan at 21 weeks detected abnormalities, confirmed as Edwards' syndrome by amniocentesis. Couple decided to end the pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN38 >> At the 20-week scan, they valued the sonographer's honesty and kindness. She called the baby 'he', not 'it'.

Problems detected at 20-week scan. Amniocentesis confirmed Patau's syndrome. Couple decided to proceed with pregnancy. Baby born at 35 weeks and died after 3 minutes.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN04 >> She felt anxious when staff talked to each other and not to her, when they spotted the baby's heart problems at her anomaly scan.

Hypoplastic left heart diagnosed after scan and amniocentesis at 25 weeks in second pregnancy. Decided to continue with the pregnancy. Son is now 2.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN35 >> At the 20-week scan in her current pregnancy, the sonographer explained she would be silent, but the mother still felt anxious, especially after the e

Combined nuchal scan/blood test suggested high risk; early results ruled out trisomies but subsequently diagnosed a severe form of Turner's syndrome. Couple decided to end the pregnancy; now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN17 >> She was worried in the waiting room between scans, and would rather have been told immediately that they suspected hydrocephalus.

Hydrocephalus detected by 20-week scan and amniocentesis in first pregnancy. Felt the decision to end the pregnancy was rushed. Miscarriage and two healthy pregnancies since.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN20 >> She had to wait for a repeat 20-week scan in her current pregnancy when problems with the baby's digestive system were suspected, and she found the wa

Scan in first pregnancy detected blighted ovum. Three healthy pregnancies since . Now 8 months into fifth pregnancy. 20-week scan detected possible abnormalities; subsequent scans have been reassuring.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN16 >> The sonographer explained she would be silent at the 20-week scan in the woman's first pregnancy. She felt staff communicated bad news with honesty an

Anencephaly detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy. Considered continuing the pregnancy but eventually decided to induce labour early. Second pregnancy miscarried. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN27 >> She was still waiting for some blood test results to come back months later, including for sickle cell disease.

Healthy pregnancy, routine screening. Some blood test results came back abnormal. Levels of information and choice have been a concern.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN19 >> She was well informed about the availability of the combined nuchal scan and blood test, but her blood sample was damaged in the post.

Normal first pregnancy, routine screening experiences, including combined nuchal scan and blood test.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN16 >> She refused the triple test in her first pregnancy because she did not realise it was for spina bifida as well as Down's syndrome.

Anencephaly detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy. Considered continuing the pregnancy but eventually decided to induce labour early. Second pregnancy miscarried. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN25 >> She was informed about the triple test, but surprised the midwife would visit her if the results showed an increased chance that something was wrong.

Two normal pregnancies. Nuchal scan not available locally, so had blood screening. Unable to have 20-week scan in first pregnancy because of staff shortages.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN32 >> They decided against blood tests in the current pregnancy and relied only on scans. This time they felt better informed to make a real choice.

Problems detected in first pregnancy at routine 12 week dating scan - confirmed as Edward's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN25 >> Her blood test results were reassuringly low risk, but she knew this could not guarantee Down's syndrome was not present.

Two normal pregnancies. Nuchal scan not available locally, so had blood screening. Unable to have 20-week scan in first pregnancy because of staff shortages.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Baby's condition detected after birth >> Interview AN12 >> Because her nuchal scan results reassured her she was low risk, she never expected her baby would have Down's syndrome.

Second child born with Down's syndrome after low risk nuchal scan results, and no problems detected at 20-week scan. Home birth. Daughter now aged two.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN22 >> An increased risk can be difficult to interpret, without knowing about the original baseline risk.

Declined all screening except 20-week anomaly scan in two most recent pregnancies.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN34 >> Having missed the deadline for a combined nuchal scan and blood test she was offered CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling) but refused.

Routine screening experiences. Healthy baby born 2002.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN13 >> After being reassured at first, they found the meaning of risk statistics from the nuchal scan in their most recent pregnancy hard to interpret.

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages; following nuchal scan results they considered amniocentesis and decided against. Baby born healthy, although mother had obstetric cholestasis in late pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN13 >> Ringing the Antenatal Results and Choices support group helped her think through her nuchal scan results and decide not to have further tests.

Healthy pregnancy after 2 miscarriages; following nuchal scan results they considered amniocentesis and decided against. Baby born healthy, although mother had obstetric cholestasis in late pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN14 >> The midwife explaining her scan results got the graph the wrong way round, but checked it with a colleague.

Seven and a half months pregnant with twins conceived by IVF. Has had scans throughout pregnancy; nuchal translucency scan had to be repeated because of the babies' position.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN14 >> She had good information about the scan results but sometimes having more information raises more questions for staff to explain.

Seven and a half months pregnant with twins conceived by IVF. Has had scans throughout pregnancy; nuchal translucency scan had to be repeated because of the babies' position.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN20 >> She was impressed with the medical care in her current pregnancy, but felt overwhelmed with information. She would have preferred more reassurance tha

Scan in first pregnancy detected blighted ovum. Three healthy pregnancies since . Now 8 months into fifth pregnancy. 20-week scan detected possible abnormalities; subsequent scans have been reassuring.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN02 >> When she first heard her nuchal scan results, she did not interpret 1 in 20 as very high risk.

1997 - nuchal scan and CVS confirmed Down's syndrome - decided to end the pregnancy. Has since had a healthy baby and is now pregnant again. Had CVS again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN30 >> They decided to have heart scans only and not amniocentesis. Staff pushed them to consider this carefully.

Down's syndrome suspected at nuchal scan. Couple declined amniocentesis and continued with the pregnancy. Further scans suggested heart problems (operated on successfully since baby's birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN32 >> She was unhappy with the information given at her first hospital, but things improved when she saw a specialist.

Problems detected in first pregnancy at routine 12 week dating scan - confirmed as Edward's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN32 >> They felt very well looked after at the specialist hospital they were referred to, and her partner felt more involved.

Problems detected in first pregnancy at routine 12 week dating scan - confirmed as Edward's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Normal results or declining screening >> Interview AN24 >> Amniocentesis did not hurt much but the sensation made her jump at one point.

Family history of Down's syndrome. Had amniocentesis in both pregnancies to rule out Down's syndrome, even though nuchal scan results were low risk.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN39 >> It helped to try to relax during the amniocentesis in her most recent pregnancy, and it did not hurt.

Hypoplastic left heart suspected at 19-week scan, confirmed by cardiac scan. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Chose amniocentesis in next pregnancy (baby born 2002).

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN39 >> It helped to try to relax during the amniocentesis in her most recent pregnancy, and it did not hurt.

Hypoplastic left heart suspected at 19-week scan, confirmed by cardiac scan. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Chose amniocentesis in next pregnancy (baby born 2002).

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN07 >> She quickly realised in the heart scan that something was wrong with the baby's heart, and the silence was unnerving.

Third pregnancy, after two miscarriages. Nuchal translucency scan suggested problems; CVS ruled out Down's syndrome but heart problems identified by further scan. Baby born March 2003, successful surgery completed.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN38 >> It was better that the doctor explained the baby's many problems at the end of the scan rather than during it.

Problems detected at 20-week scan. Amniocentesis confirmed Patau's syndrome. Couple decided to proceed with pregnancy. Baby born at 35 weeks and died after 3 minutes.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN02 >> The midwife rang her at home with the CVS (Chorionic Villus Sampling) results to tell her the baby had Down's syndrome, but she was at work. The midwi

1997 - nuchal scan and CVS confirmed Down's syndrome - decided to end the pregnancy. Has since had a healthy baby and is now pregnant again. Had CVS again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN39 >> She had a fetal heart scan straight after the 20-week scan in her fourth pregnancy, and staff explained her baby's heart condition very clearly.

Hypoplastic left heart suspected at 19-week scan, confirmed by cardiac scan. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Chose amniocentesis in next pregnancy (baby born 2002).

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN15 >> At a scan at 8 months she learned that her baby's brain was partially formed and the prognosis was poor, but the baby has since made better progress t

Following two miscarriages, during next pregnancy had frequent scans. A scan at 8 months unexpectedly found hydrocephalus and brain problems. Termination offered but rejected.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN39 >> The hospital was sensitive in the way it gave her information about the baby's heart condition and the possibility of ending the pregnancy.

Hypoplastic left heart suspected at 19-week scan, confirmed by cardiac scan. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Chose amniocentesis in next pregnancy (baby born 2002).

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN40 >> The midwife gave them excellent information about Down's syndrome and about the process of termination, but with hindsight it might have been better t

Down's syndrome detected by amniocentesis in first pregnancy. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Baby son born since.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN06 >> The internet was a valuable source of information, and helped them identify questions to ask about their son's heart condition. Their doctors always r

Third pregnancy, after two miscarriages. Nuchal scan suggested problems; CVS ruled out Down's syndrome but heart problems identified by further scan. Baby born March 2003, successful surgery completed.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN16 >> At first she did not understand what anencephaly meant and spent the night searching books for information.

Anencephaly detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy. Considered continuing the pregnancy but eventually decided to induce labour early. Second pregnancy miscarried. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN16 >> The consultant was shocked to discover they had not understood their baby's condition and had to find information themselves.

Anencephaly detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy. Considered continuing the pregnancy but eventually decided to induce labour early. Second pregnancy miscarried. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN31 >> She decided not to meet another woman with a baby with Down's syndrome, because she would feel under pressure to continue the pregnancy.

Problems detected in first pregnancy at nuchal scan - confirmed as Down's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Subsequent normal pregnancy and birth.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN45 >> The hospital advised against meeting parents of babies with Down's syndrome. She did not get in touch with support groups.

Their son was diagnosed with a complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD), pulmonary atresia and right atrial isomerism. Other problems: No spleen and mal-rotation of the gut. Treatment: A BT shunt at 24 hrs old, followed by the Glenn procedure at 6 months. More of this interview can be seen on the DIPEX Congenital Heart Disease site as interview CHD14.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN30 >> During pregnancy they went to meet other families and people with disabilities to help their decision-making.

Down's syndrome suspected at nuchal scan. Couple declined amniocentesis and continued with the pregnancy. Further scans suggested heart problems (operated on successfully since baby's birth).

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN02 >> From her experience of meeting children with Down's syndrome she did not realise the range of disability and health problems it could involve, from mi

1997 - nuchal scan and CVS confirmed Down's syndrome - decided to end the pregnancy. Has since had a healthy baby and is now pregnant again. Had CVS again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN17 >> She felt too much information about the process of termination might have deterred her from having one. She wanted information and guidance in stages.

Hydrocephalus detected by 20-week scan and amniocentesis in first pregnancy. Felt the decision to end the pregnancy was rushed. Miscarriage and two healthy pregnancies since.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN29 >> The information from screening and diagnosis helped them in deciding to continue with the pregnancy. They were offered the option of ending the pregna

After four miscarriages, scan in fifth pregnancy found heart defects. Couple decided to continue the pregnancy. Son, now 4, has had some additional problems. Pregnant at time of interview.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN15 >> She wanted to keep the baby, although she was advised to have a termination. She felt at 8 months it was simply too late.

Following two miscarriages, during next pregnancy had frequent scans. A scan at 8 months unexpectedly found hydrocephalus and brain problems. Termination offered but rejected.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN40 >> The termination was more painful than she expected and it was frightening not knowing what to expect.

Down's syndrome detected by amniocentesis in first pregnancy. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Baby son born since.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN43 >> They had made it clear they wanted to continue the pregnancy, and were offended that termination was offered as an option.

Their son was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Ventricle, VSD, Mitral Atresia, Pulmonary Atresia, Right Atrial Isomerism, aorta arising from the right ventricle, TAPVD and Bilateral Superior Vena Cava and no spleen. Treatment: modified BT shunt (6 days old) open heart surgery (3 months and 6 months), 1st stage Fontan (10 months). Further surgery planned. Current medication: Warfarin, Enanapril, Frusemide, Penicillin. More of this interview can be seen on the DIPEX Congenital Heart Disease site as interview CHD07.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN41 >> They were given useful information about the condition and about termination, but it was difficult to have to read about termination.

Their son was diagnosed with Tricuspid Atresia, a large VSD, ASD, small right ventricle & small pulmonary artery. Treatment: Modified BT Shunt & Atrial Septostomy at 24 hrs old. Cardiac catheters & further operations planned when their child is older. Current Medication: diuretics, aspirin, sytron, anti-reflux and lactulose. More of this interview can be seen on the DIPEX Congenital Heart Disease site as interview CHD03.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN38 >> They continued the pregnancy because they needed to know in future they had given their baby every chance.

Problems detected at 20-week scan. Amniocentesis confirmed Patau's syndrome. Couple decided to proceed with pregnancy. Baby born at 35 weeks and died after 3 minutes.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN38 >> It was a relief to decide to continue with the pregnancy, but also a time of grief.

Problems detected at 20-week scan. Amniocentesis confirmed Patau's syndrome. Couple decided to proceed with pregnancy. Baby born at 35 weeks and died after 3 minutes.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN06 >> They felt lucky their son's heart condition was detected early, and would make the same screening decisions again.

Third pregnancy, after two miscarriages. Nuchal scan suggested problems; CVS ruled out Down's syndrome but heart problems identified by further scan. Baby born March 2003, successful surgery completed.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN43 >> She was glad they discovered their son's heart condition late in pregnancy, so they had less time to worry.

Their son was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Ventricle, VSD, Mitral Atresia, Pulmonary Atresia, Right Atrial Isomerism, aorta arising from the right ventricle, TAPVD and Bilateral Superior Vena Cava and no spleen. Treatment: modified BT shunt (6 days old) open heart surgery (3 months and 6 months), 1st stage Fontan (10 months). Further surgery planned. Current medication: Warfarin, Enanapril, Frusemide, Penicillin. More of this interview can be seen on the DIPEX Congenital Heart Disease site as interview CHD07.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN02 >> It was hard to start discussing whether to end the pregnancy. Their doctor did not appreciate how difficult it was.

1997 - nuchal scan and CVS confirmed Down's syndrome - decided to end the pregnancy. Has since had a healthy baby and is now pregnant again. Had CVS again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN32 >> Once they knew the baby had Edwards' syndrome, they felt termination was inevitable, but needed more sympathetic support and counselling.

Problems detected in first pregnancy at routine 12 week dating scan - confirmed as Edward's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN18 >> She found out about Antenatal Results and Choices support group after she came out of hospital. She would have liked to have their booklet earlier.

Spina bifida detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy - some family history of the condition. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN35 >> They would have preferred the baby to die before the termination, and at first misunderstood the effect of the mifepristone tablets. Waiting between t

Combined nuchal scan/blood test suggested high risk; early results ruled out trisomies but subsequently diagnosed a severe form of Turner's syndrome. Couple decided to end the pregnancy; now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN36 >> Having an injection to ensure the baby died before the induction at 23 weeks was not as bad as anticipated, but still distressing.

Nuchal scan in first pregnancy gave low risk result, but anomaly scan at 21 weeks detected abnormalities, confirmed as Edwards' syndrome by amniocentesis. Couple decided to end the pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN16 >> She was given clear information about the process of ending the pregnancy, what medication she would have and how long it would take.

Anencephaly detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy. Considered continuing the pregnancy but eventually decided to induce labour early. Second pregnancy miscarried. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN32 >> The nurses and one of the doctors were very supportive during the termination, but other staff were sometimes less sympathetic.

Problems detected in first pregnancy at routine 12 week dating scan - confirmed as Edward's syndrome by CVS. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN18 >> When they arrived for the termination no-one knew they were coming. They had a long wait to see the consultant.

Spina bifida detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy - some family history of the condition. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN18 >> She was given conflicting advice about whether she could dress the baby after a termination at 20 weeks, which upset her.

Spina bifida detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy - some family history of the condition. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN18 >> She did not receive the hospital leaflet explaining that she would have some bleeding and her milk would come in.

Spina bifida detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy - some family history of the condition. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN36 >> She still feels screening is valuable, but thinks that the way it is presented to women is too reassuring

Nuchal scan in first pregnancy gave low risk result, but anomaly scan at 21 weeks detected abnormalities, confirmed as Edwards' syndrome by amniocentesis. Couple decided to end the pregnancy.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN17 >> She considered not having any screening in her next pregnancy. Screening is valuable but sometimes raises more questions than it answers.

Hydrocephalus detected by 20-week scan and amniocentesis in first pregnancy. Felt the decision to end the pregnancy was rushed. Miscarriage and two healthy pregnancies since.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN18 >> She would definitely want screening again, but will always feel anxious in subsequent pregnancies that something could go wrong.

Spina bifida detected at 20-week scan in first pregnancy - some family history of the condition. Couple decided to end the pregnancy. Now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Ending an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN35 >> At the 20-week scan in their current pregnancy, they were given the folder with results from the previous pregnancy by mistake.

Combined nuchal scan/blood test suggested high risk; early results ruled out trisomies but subsequently diagnosed a severe form of Turner's syndrome. Couple decided to end the pregnancy; now pregnant again.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Baby's condition detected after birth >> Interview AN12 >> When people are told their baby will have Down's syndrome, they need more balanced information about life with the condition.

Second child born with Down's syndrome after low risk nuchal scan results, and no problems detected at 20-week scan. Home birth. Daughter now aged two.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Baby's condition detected after birth >> Interview AN10 >> If she had known how bad her daughter's brain damage was expected to be, she might have considered termination, in fact she has made good progress. Sh

Baby born in April 2002 with hydrocephalus which had not been picked up during screening. Baby has had surgery and is making good progress.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Baby's condition detected after birth >> Interview AN10 >> As not all problems can be detected at the 20-week scan, she felt more screening should be offered in later pregnancy.

Baby born in April 2002 with hydrocephalus which had not been picked up during screening. Baby has had surgery and is making good progress.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Baby's condition detected after birth >> Interview AN03 >> One doctor at the specialist hospital told them their daughter's heart condition should have been detected at the 20-week scan.

Daughter born November 2000 with congenital heart problems not detected by antenatal screening, diagnosed when the baby was 10 weeks old. Corrective surgery at 11 months and 2 years.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Baby's condition detected after birth >> Interview AN03 >> They would like to have their scan pictures reviewed by a specialist to know whether their daughter's heart condition could have been detected before

Daughter born November 2000 with congenital heart problems not detected by antenatal screening, diagnosed when the baby was 10 weeks old. Corrective surgery at 11 months and 2 years.

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Continuing with an affected pregnancy >> Interview AN04 >> Meeting the oldest surviving child with hypoplastic left heart helped her imagine a future for her son. She felt she had been unprepared for how tough

Hypoplastic left heart diagnosed after scan and amniocentesis at 25 weeks in second pregnancy. Decided to continue with the pregnancy. Son is now 2.

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• >> Antenatal Screening >> Information for making decisions >> Information for making decisions

Information for making decisions

• Pregnancy & children >> Antenatal Screening >> Information for making decisions >> Information for making decisions

Information for making decisions