Open AccessInformation and knowledge about Down syndrome among women and partners after first trimester combined testing
Author(s) -
Ternby Ellen,
Ingvoldstad Charlotta,
Annerén Göran,
Lindgren Peter,
Axelsson Ove
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
acta obstetricia et gynecologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1600-0412
pISSN - 0001-6349
DOI - 10.1111/aogs.12560
Subject(s) - medicine , test (biology) , pregnancy , cohort , prospective cohort study , down syndrome , obstetrics , family medicine , first trimester , gynecology , gestation , psychiatry , surgery , pathology , paleontology , genetics , biology
We assessed reasons among women and partners for choosing combined ultrasound‐biochemistry testing, information and knowledge about Down syndrome and decisions concerning invasive procedures and termination of pregnancy in a prospective cohort study in Uppsala County. In all 105 pregnant women and 104 partners coming for a combined ultrasound‐biochemistry test answered a questionnaire. The most common reason for a combined ultrasound‐biochemistry test was “to perform all tests possible to make sure the baby is healthy”. Internet and midwives were the most common sources of information. Seventy‐two percent had not received information on what it means to live with a child with Down syndrome. Many expectant parents perceived information as insufficient. Both women and partners had varying or low levels of knowledge about medical, cognitive and social consequences of Down syndrome. Twenty‐five percent had not decided on an invasive test if indicated and only 42% would consider termination of pregnancy with a Down syndrome diagnosis.