What a higher chance screening result means

If you’ve been told your screening result is a higher chance, it’s likely to feel overwhelming. This is what the result does and doesn’t mean, and what happens next.

It is not a diagnosis

The NHS is clear on this: getting a higher chance result does not mean your baby definitely has the condition. It says most people with a higher chance result will have a baby without any of the conditions. Screening gives a chance, not an answer.

What is a higher chance?

Hospitals set a cut-off. ARC says it is usually 1 in 150. A result between 1 in 2 and 1 in 150 counts as a higher chance. A result such as 1 in 151, 1 in 300 or 1 in 5,000 is a lower chance, because the second number is bigger. Your letter or appointment will explain the figure.

What happens next

The NHS says you’ll be offered an appointment to discuss the result and your choices. A specialist doctor or midwife will explain, and you can bring a partner, family member or friend. You may find it helpful to write your questions down beforehand.

Your choices usually include:

NIPT. A blood test that is more accurate than the first screening test. It is still screening. See NIPT.
A diagnostic test. CVS or amniocentesis can tell you if your baby definitely has the condition, but both carry a small risk of miscarriage.
No further tests. This is a valid choice.

Your maternity team will support whichever you choose.

Making the decision

The NHS says this can be a very difficult decision, and you may feel differently from one day to the next. You have time to think, and you don’t have to decide alone. You can talk to your midwife or specialist, your family and friends, a local support group, a charity for your baby’s condition, or a counsellor. You don’t need a GP referral for a counsellor.

Where to get support

ARC. Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC) offers free, non-directive information and support. Its helpline is 020 7713 7486, Monday to Friday, 10am to 5.30pm, with calls on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (8pm to 10pm) arranged by emailing info@arc-uk.org. You can also text 07908 683004 (UK only).
Tommy’s midwives are on 0800 0147 800, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Condition-specific charities, such as the Down’s Syndrome Association, SOFT UK (for Patau’s and Edwards’ syndromes) and the Sickle Cell Society.

Questions people ask

Does a higher chance mean something is wrong?

Not necessarily. Most people with this result have a baby without the condition.

Could the screening be wrong?

Screening can give a higher chance when the baby does not have the condition. That is why further tests exist.

What if I don’t want more tests?

That’s your choice, and your care will continue. You can change your mind later if there’s time.

How long will I have to wait?

The NHS says if your result is higher chance you’ll be contacted within 1 week. Ask your team what the timings are for any test you choose.