Prenatal genetic screening can tell a pregnant woman her chance of having a baby with Down syndrome, trisomy 18, or an open neural tube defect. It is offered free of charge as a choice to all pregnant women with MSP coverage in BC.*
If you are thinking of having a baby, or if you are pregnant, this section on prenatal genetic screening can answer many of your questions. It can also prepare you for an informed discussion with your partner and your health care provider.
It's your choice whether or not to have prenatal genetic screening. The earlier in your pregnancy you see your health care provider, the more options you will have.
Please watch the video below for more information about the screening options available to you.
To learn more about prenatal genetic screening in BC:
If you have decided to have prenatal screening, use our pregnancy dating tool to find out when to have your blood drawn.
*If you do not have MSP coverage, prenatal genetic screening is available for a fee. BC Children's Hospital finance department will send you an invoice for $125. You may also be charged for blood collection by the facility who draws your blood.
