Individualized choice in prenatal diagnosis: the impact of karyotyping and standalone rapid aneuploidy detection on quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the reasons and perceptions of women who are offered a choice between karyotyping and standalone rapid aneuploidy detection (RAD) and to compare the impact of both tests on anxiety and health-related quality of life.

METHODS

In this prospective comparative study, women undergoing amniocentesis on behalf of their age or for an increased Down syndrome risk were offered a choice between karyotyping (group 1, n = 68) and standalone RAD (group 2, n = 61). Follow-up was 9 weeks post amniocentesis.

RESULTS

The most commonly cited reason for choosing karyotyping was obtaining as much information as possible, while for choosing standalone RAD, it was the short waiting time. Prenatal screening (OR 7.09), no knowledge of karyotyping (OR 4.2), and an intermediate perceived risk for chromosomal abnormalities (OR 3.6) were associated with choosing standalone RAD. There were no systematic differences in time of karyotyping and standalone RAD in terms of anxiety (P = 0.11), generic physical and mental health (P = 0.94, 0.52; P = 0.66, 0.07), personal perceived control (PPC; P = 0.69), and stress (P = 0.66).

CONCLUSION

Offering a choice between karyotyping and standalone RAD does not influence anxiety, stress, PPC, or generic health. Individual choice in prenatal diagnosis meets individual needs and thereby could reduce anxiety and stress.