Prenatal Screening

What is prenatal screening (during pregnancy)?
During your pregnancy, you can choose to have tests done to see if there are any signs that the baby in your womb may have a chromosomal or a physical abnormality. This is called prenatal screening.

Two types of screening

There are two types of tests:

1.  Screening for chromosomal abnormalities: the NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test). This is a blood test.
    
2. Screening for physical abnormalities: the 13-week ultrasound and the 20-week ultrasound.

Counseling appointment

Would you like to know more about these tests?
Your midwife or obstetric care provider will schedule a counseling appointment. During this conversation, you will go over all your options together and decide what fits your situation best.
You can also ask any questions you may have.
 

Prepare for the appointment

Read up on the tests before your appointment. On the PNS website (Prenatal and Newborn Screening), you can find more information, such as:

• A brochure about the NIPT, 13-week ultrasound, and 20-week ultrasound.
• A short video about the NIPT and videos about the 13-week and 20-week ultrasounds.
• Questionnaires to help you make your decision.
   

Whether or not to do the tests: it's your choice

The NIPT, 13-week ultrasound, and 20-week ultrasound are not mandatory.
You decide whether you want to have one or more of these tests and what you do with the results.
You can also stop the testing at any point during the process.