End of Pregnancy, Decisions For Fetal Anomalies

End Of Pregnancy, Decision For Fetal Anomalies

Unfortunately some pregnancies do not progress as planned. Some babies are found to have serious anomalies. Anomalies can be found on an ultrasound scan or on diagnostic testing during the pregnancy. Some babies have more than one anomaly. Depending on the extent of an anomaly parents could be faced with very difficult decisions and options about ending the pregnancy.

Throughout this time and indeed when an anomaly is first confirmed it is very common for parents to feel a range of emotions including a deep sense of sadness, anger and guilt although it is recognised that how parents react is very individual. Parents are encouraged to access information by a charity called Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC). Parents are usually given an information leaflet from ARC by the screening team.

Throughout this time parents are always given time to think about their decisions and will have opportunities to have questions answered. Equally parents are always supported by a team of staff, including midwives, consultants and chaplaincy if wished. This helps parents to make decisions