scan for downs - when should you have it?

[reren]

Does anyone know at what stage you should have the nucal (sp?) scan? I was told about it by my GP but i said I thought I didn't want to have it (as I think I would have the baby whatever the outcome), but having spoken to my husband, he agrees we'd go ahead, but thinks we should have the scan so that at least we know...I'm wondering how I organise to have it - if i've missed the opportunity ... i'm only in very early stages of pregnancy (5 weeks)

[Pickle]

Hi again!

At your 12/13 week scan they do some basic tests to determine your risk of Downs. These are non-invasive and done as standard. Depending on the results you then have the option of further testing if you feel it's right for you.

Once you register your pregnancy you'll get "booked in" which will then result in you getting letters from Kings regarding scan dates etc.

I remember being at your stage with my first and finding it all VERY confusing, so I know exactly how you're feeling at the moment!

P x

[The Nappy Lady]

Hi reren,

This is part of the 12 week scan, although they would check the nucal area again at the later scan I believe ...at 23 weeks. Kings is amazing - because it is a teaching and research hospital they also take your blood and test it, and this, combined with the nucal scan and measurements of the nasal bone, a valve in the heart and blood flow in the bowel taken during the scan gives them very accurate predictions for the risk of Downs.

You will not have missed the chance, you just need to tell your Doctor and he will refer you to Kings, who then send you a letter with an appointment date and time. My advice would be to then telephone them and say you can't make that appointment and ask them to move you, and try to get an early morning (first thing if you can) slot....they get more and more behind as the day goes on, so much better to get there for 9am, and you only have a (relatively) short wait.

I should think you could just telephone and ask to speak to your Doctor to get this sorted (the receptionist should be able to get him to call you back) no point going to sit in the surgery and taking up an appointment slot to sort it out.

Molly

[reren]

thank you so much - this is incredibly helpful! so much appreciated

[Ann]

reren, delighted to hear about your pregnancy. King's scanning department are world leaders, no doubt about it and I agree with what others have posted. When your GP refers you (and by the way you can self-refer), you will automatically be given an appointment for a 12 week scan. Yes this scan can screen for Down's and other chromosomal abnormalities and give you an adjusted risk factor.

More importantly in the vast majority of cases they can tell you that your baby is developing normally and confirm the gestation of the fetus. Those parents who then wish to have a CVS can do so, often on the same day but you will not be pressurised and your decisions will be respected.

Best wishes,

Ann