The NIPT in early pregnancy is useful for patients who are anxious about their baby having a chromosomal abnormality such as Down’s, Edwards’ or Patau's syndrome, older women (particularly over 40 years) and those who have previously had a chromosomally abnormal pregnancy. A scan is performed as part of the appointment confirming all is well in the early stages of pregnancy and providing much needed reassurance.The result is usually available within 3 -14 days. There is approximately a 4% chance that no result is obtained with TDL VeriSeq v2 by Illumina, 8% with Panorama and less than 3% with SAFE test. if the test is unsuccessful an offer of a repeat test is made free of charge. In rare circumstances the result can take longer than 14 days. We understand it can be a stressful time waiting for results and we endeavour to communicate any delays to our patients as soon as we receive information from the laboratory.

12 Week Private Midwife Consultation

12 Week Private Midwife Consultation 

Following a low probability result from the NIPT test you are seen again at the end of the first trimester for a reassurance scan. The sonographer will assess the development of the baby paying particular attention to the Nuchal translucency measurement and nasal bone as part of the baby’s anatomy. The baby’s movement, amount of amniotic fluid and placental position is also reported.

At 18-24 week gestations you will be having the fetal anatomy scan. It is a very thorough scan where measurements of the baby's head, brain, abdomen and legs are reported and plotted on a chart. The detailed anatomy of the baby is checked including heart, brain, spine, bowel and limbs to detect any abnormalities. The fetal sex can be reported by scan at this stage if requested.

During this scan we measure the baby's head, abdomen and femur length, and estimate the baby’s weight. This gives a guide to your baby’s growth pattern. We also look at how the baby is moving, the amount of amniotic fluid, and where the placenta is located. We will also assess the Doppler blood flow in the umbilical cord blood vessels to check the placental function. We provide still ultrasound images for you to take away with you on the day. We also send these to you electronically, with a couple of video clips. We also provide a USB stick with the full 3D/4D experience.

The last scan of your package aims to offer information of the baby’s growth and wellbeing in the last stages prior to delivery. The position of the baby is checked as well as the estimated fetal weight as part of the pre-birth check. The growth, amniotic fluid, fetal activity and dopplers are the main focus of this scan.