Antenatal testing for CF
There is no routine UK-wide antenatal screening for cystic fibrosis. However, if you and your partner are carriers or have CF, there are antenatal tests (tests that are done during pregnancy) to see if the baby has CF. Your genetic counsellor can tell you what your options are, and about any risks that may come with these tests.
If you and your partner are carriers or have CF, you will be offered genetic counselling to discuss family planning options, including tests that may be available to you during pregnancy or before getting pregnant. If you are thinking of starting a family, having these discussions early on with a genetic counsellor can give you time to consider your options and, in some cases, undertake pre-pregnancy workup. A genetic counsellor will give you information to help you make decisions that are right for both of you.
You can read more about the types of antenatal tests below. You don’t have to accept an offer of these tests. It’s a personal decision, and healthcare professionals will support you whatever you decide. There are pros and cons to antenatal testing, which you will be able to discuss with your healthcare provider. Our Helpline is also available to anyone looking for information or support with any aspect of cystic fibrosis, a listening ear, or just to talk things through.
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Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is a test where a tiny piece of the developing placenta is taken at 11–14 weeks.
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Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a test where a sample of the fluid in the womb is taken at 15-20 weeks. Amniocentesis can be done later in pregnancy if necessary.
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Non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD)
NIPD is a test which involves taking a small blood sample from the mother after nine weeks of pregnancy onwards. This test is only available in certain circumstances, which your genetic counsellor will explain to you.
Your genetic counsellor can tell you what your options are, and about any risks that may come with these tests.
For couples considering testing during pregnancy, it is important to get in touch with maternity services as soon as possible after finding out that you are pregnant to ensure a timely referral to clinical genetics. This will help to maximise the testing options available to you and give you time to consider these.
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