Prenatal diagnosis in Sweden 2011 to 2013-a register-based study

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Public Health
• Medical Genetics

Background:

• Prenatal diagnosis encompasses screening and diagnostic methods in early pregnancy.
• Swedish prenatal diagnosis guidelines and uptake patterns were investigated.
• Socio-demographic factors and pregnancy outcomes related to diagnostic methods were examined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze national guidelines for prenatal diagnosis across Swedish counties.
• To determine the uptake rates of various prenatal diagnostic methods.
• To identify background characteristics influencing the use of prenatal diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cross-sectional study utilizing the Swedish Pregnancy Register (2011-2013).
• Collection and analysis of prenatal diagnosis guidelines.
• Biostatistical and epidemiological analyses, including logistic regression.

Main Results:

• National uptake: Ultrasound (97.6%), Combined Ultrasound and Biochemical test (CUB) (33.0%), Amniocentesis (AC) (2.6%), Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) (1.1%).
• Significant variation in CUB test availability across counties.
• Advanced maternal age and higher educational attainment were associated with increased prenatal diagnosis uptake.

Conclusions:

• Prenatal diagnostic service provision varied considerably between Swedish counties.
• Unequal access to prenatal diagnosis was observed, contradicting the principle of equal healthcare.
• Disparities in access highlight the need for standardized prenatal care policies.