9 November 2017
The Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA) would not want to see a world without people with Down’s syndrome. People with Down’s syndrome make an enormous contribution to their families, local communities and society in general in all sorts of different ways.
While The DSA acknowledges that the offer of prenatal testing for Down’s syndrome is a routine part of antenatal care, we are committed to ensuring that the prenatal testing process informs all potential parents and professionals of the joys and challenges of having a child with Down’s syndrome.
Before and during testing, easily understood and up-to-date information MUST be provided in an unbiased way by well trained professionals concerning:
- The accuracy of tests and associated risks of further tests;
- The life prospects of people with Down’s syndrome;
- The impact on families;
- The support available in the community;
- Broad and non-directive counselling services for those who may need it.
We expect respect and support for parents making choices about antenatal tests and their outcomes – whatever they decide to do.