Psychological Aspects of Prenatal Testing for Fetal Abnormalities

Abstract

Prenatal testing for fetal abnormalities has become an integrated aspect of routine care of pregnant women in many countries. Psychological studies are reviewed that address three key issues arising from the use of this new technology: the factors determining whether women undergo these tests; the impact of undergoing these tests; and the social implications of prenatal testing. Both the advantages and disadvantages of prenatal testing are described, drawing upon a range of empirical studies.