Mothers-to-be are benefiting from a new screening service which is now available at Milton Keynes Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. All women who book for care are now offered the Combined Screening Test for Down’s syndrome between 11 weeks and 13 weeks and six day gestation.

This new combined test replaces the Triple Blood Test (although the triple test is still available for those who book too late or for whom the Nuchal Translucency (NT) measurement has not been achieved). The screening consists of a scan to measure the size of the fluid area at the back of the baby’s neck and is combined with a blood test to measure the level of both a protein and a hormone.  When these markers are combined they can indicate the risk of carrying a baby with Down’s syndrome. If the risk is high, further tests will be offered.

Louise Abbott, Pre-Natal Screening Specialist Midwife at Milton Keynes Hospital, said: “The main benefits of this test are that it is carried out between 11 weeks and 13 weeks and six day gestation, allowing women to get their results much earlier in their pregnancy than with the Triple Test, which is performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.

“The test is more accurate than the Triple Test. This not only avoids unnecessary concern for some women, but also results in fewer women having to go on to further tests, which carry a risk of miscarriage.”

Veronica Gordon, Superintendent Specialist Radiographer, said: “The Nuchal Translucency Scan is a much more detailed scan than the former 12-week dating scan.  Women who do not wish to have the Combined Screening Test will still be able to have a dating scan.

“Developments in technology and early screening tests for abnormalities, like Down’s syndome, bring reassurance and improved support to mothers-to-be. They ensure that midwives and hospital specialists can provide the best possible care, both physically and emotionally, for women in Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas.”

Women now must ensure that they book early with their GP ideally between 8 and 10 weeks, to allow time for an appointment to be made, as the test cannot be carried out after 14 weeks. Early booking also allows us to carry out other checks and tests that help us to ensure that all pregnancies are as safe as possible for both mother and baby.