20-week screening scan pathway
Updated 19 May 2021
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This flowchart (text description and illustration below) describes the fetal anomaly screening programme (FASP) pathway for the 20-week screening scan, performed between 18+0 and 20+6 weeks.
1. Offer information and 20-week screening scan
Offer the pregnant woman the 20-week screening scan and information about the test.
2. Does the woman accept screening?
Yes: Carry out ultrasound scan
No: Follow up at birth in newborn and infant physical examination (NIPE) screening. End of pathway.
3. Is a physical condition suspected or detected?
Yes: Refer as appropriate, following local policy. Discuss options and offer confirmatory testing.
No: Follow up at birth in NIPE screening. End of pathway.
4. Does the woman accept confirmatory testing?
Yes: Carry out confirmatory test. This may include a further ultrasound scan for confirmation of condition, plus or minus prenatal diagnosis (PND).
No: Offer follow-up support and follow up at birth in NIPE screening. End of pathway.
5. Is a physical condition confirmed?
Yes: Discuss options
No: Follow up at birth in NIPE screening. End of pathway.
6. What is the woman’s choice?
Continue pregnancy: Offer follow-up support and follow up at birth in NIPE screening. End of pathway.
Terminate pregnancy: Offer follow-up support. End of pathway.