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Published on: February 2, 2015
Audit: women's perception and knowledge of the 20 weeks anomaly scan
F M S Basama1, B Leonard, M Leighton
1Sharoe Green and Chorley Hospitals, Preston, Lancashire, UK. fbasama@hotmail.com
Summary
Most pregnant women understand the 20-week anomaly scan checks fetal structure. However, expectations for detecting abnormalities are high, and knowledge of soft markers is very low.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Fetal Medicine
- Maternal Health
Background:
- The 20-week anomaly scan is a routine prenatal screening.
- Accurate patient understanding of scan capabilities is crucial for informed consent and realistic expectations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess pregnant women's understanding of the purpose and capabilities of the 20-week anomaly scan.
- To evaluate patient knowledge regarding the detection rates of fetal structural abnormalities and soft markers.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among 385 women attending maternity units for their 20-week anomaly scan.
- Participants' perceptions of the scan's purpose, detection abilities, and awareness of soft markers were recorded.
Main Results:
- Ninety-five percent of women correctly identified the anomaly scan's purpose as checking for fetal structural abnormalities.
- A significant majority overestimated the scan's ability to detect abnormalities, with 51% expecting 71-100% detection.
- Knowledge of soft markers was very limited, with 92% of women having never heard of them.
Conclusions:
- While women generally understand the primary goal of the anomaly scan, their expectations regarding detection rates are often unrealistic.
- There is a critical need for improved patient education regarding the limitations of the anomaly scan and the concept of soft markers.
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