Second trimester fetal abnormality scans: do women know the reasons why they are done?

A 10 point questionnaire was given to 239 women attending for second trimester fetal abnormality ultrasound scans to explore their level of knowledge about the nature, purpose and limitations of the procedure. Questions were included about the conditions which could or could not be diagnosed, and about the accuracy and sensitivity of the procedure. Demographic data was also recorded. Two hundred and thirty-five forms were correctly completed. The percentage of women returning correct answers ranged from 58.8% to 100% and response rate was correlated with years of full time education in some questions. The results suggest that patients perceive the scan as a chance to see their baby and that many do not fully appreciate either the purpose or the limitations of fetal anomaly scanning. This may complicate the post-test counselling required if an abnormality is detected.