North Shore Hospital Maternity Services | Waitematā | Te Whatu Ora

Contact Details

Antenatal Clinic: ph (09) 486 8920 ext 43393
Pregnancy and Parenting Education
Click here for information and to register for:
- Pregnancy & Parenting courses
- Breastfeeding classes
Alternatively please phone or text Barbara Taylor on 021 784 265

Birthing Suite: (09) 486 8920 ext 42898
Maternity Suite: (09) 486 8920 ext 42848
Early Pregnancy Clinic: 021 243 9729

Downs Syndrome Screening

Screening for Downs Syndrome and other chromasomal (genetic) abnormalities is now routinely offered. Women are advised to undergo some risk screening prior to any diagnostic screening as there are risks associated with invasive screening methods.
 
Risk screening tests  - there are two tests available, one in the first trimester and one in the second trimester. Please see the National Screening Unit website for details www.nsu.govt.nz
 
Diagnostic tests - these should only be recommended to women with a high risk of chromasomal (genetic) abnormality.
 
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) involves taking a small sample of the chorionic villi, which are the tiny units that make up the placenta. Using ultrasound as a guide, the sample is obtained by inserting a cannula up through the vagina and cervix (transcervical) or by inserting a needle in through your stomach (transabdominal).
 
Amniocentesis  involves taking a small sample of amniotic fluid from around the foetus with a needle introduced through the stomach.
 
Both these tests carry a risk of miscarriage.

https://www.healthpoint.co.nz/public/maternity/north-shore-hospital-maternity-services-waitemata/