Prenatal Screening : Experiences of Pregnant Women Undergoing Further Examinations

Prenatal screening for fetal abnormalities is part of prenatal care in Finland. Participation is voluntary, but most pregnant women choose to take part. Earlier studies have indicated imperfections in the way pregnant women are being informed about the screening process. This study examines the experiences of women who have been offered further examinations after an initial abnormal screening result. The study population consists of 168 women who attended further examination appointments at the Women's Hospital in Helsinki during autumn of 2014. Data were collected using questionnaires that contained a mixture of closed- and open-ended questions. The results show that the information given at the initial screening appointment is often unclear or insufficient. Many women are not aware of the risks and possible negative outcomes of participating in prenatal screening. Providing understandable and thorough information at every point in the screening process is essential, especially when informing a pregnant woman about a possible fetal abnormality