Objective: Multiple non-invasive tests are available to screen for the risk of fetal trisomy, however, there is no national prenatal screening programme in Ireland. This study aimed to analyse women’s opinions on availability, cost, and knowledge of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for fetal aneuploidy. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire on knowledge of prenatal screening tests and attitudes to termination of pregnancy was developed and distributed to women attending antenatal clinics at a tertiary hospital. Descriptive analyses and chi-squared tests were completed. Conclusions: While Irish women have good overall understanding of screening test interpretation, most were unaware of screening options. A national prenatal screening programme, including education on fetal aneuploidy, should be established.

All pregnant women, over 18 years old, who attended the public and private antenatal clinics at Cork University Maternity Hospital from September to October 2020 were eligible to participate in this study. In the public clinics, women were approached Monday through Friday in 07-18 September 2020 from 9 am to 12 pm. While in the private clinics, women were approached, from 07 September to 02 October 2020. All women who registered for their appointments were approached about the study while in the waiting room. Women were verbally informed about the study and offered the participant information leaflet and participant invitation letter. Women were informed that they were able to withdraw from the study at any time until their questionnaire was submitted to the collection box

Self-administered questionnaire: Paper