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RCM comments on new non-invasive prenatal test available to pregnant women in Wales

By RCM on 27 April 2018 Pregnancy NIPT - Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing

From Monday April 30th pregnant women in Wales will have access to more accurate screening tests for Down’s, Edward’s and Patau’s syndromes.

Wales is the first UK nation to introduce Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) across the whole country as an addition to the existing antenatal screening offer.

The test will be offered to women who have taken up the initial offer of screening and are found to be at a higher chance of Down’s, Edward’s or Patau’s syndrome. The NIPT test is offered as an alternative to an invasive test.

Commenting RCM’s Director for Wales, Helen Rogers said; “The RCM welcomes the introduction of Non-invasive Prenatal testing (NIPT) which will be available to pregnant women across Wales from this coming Monday (April 30th). I am also pleased that Wales is leading the way being the first UK country to make this test available to all women irrespective of where they live in Wales.

“The NIPT will only be offered to women who have had a positive result, but will support when undertaken the already well established screening tests which women are familiar with anyway such as scans and blood tests provided in early pregnancy.

 “Screening during pregnancy can be an anxious time for the parents when they decide on screening tests offered. The RCM works with UK Screening Committee to ensure that quality and availability of screening in pregnancy and postnatally is of highest standard.

"Screening is always an individual choice for women and their partners and midwives in Wales have undergone additional training so they can share clear information on this non-invasive test with women which will support them in their decision making and to make the right choice for them.”

 

ENDS

 

To contact the RCM Media Relations Team call 020 7312 3456 or email [email protected].

 

Notes to editors

 

A short film from Public Health Wales -explaining the NIPT:

The RCM is the only trade union and professional association dedicated to serving midwifery and the whole midwifery team. We provide workplace advice and support, professional and clinical guidance and information, and learning opportunities with our broad range of events, conferences and online resources. For more information visit the RCM website at https://www.rcm.org.uk/

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