THE PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF THE PRENATAL DOWN SYNDROME DIAGNOSTIC TEST
Abstract:
Background: Prenatal Diagnostics Testing is the only current method of clarifying suspicions
on Down syndrome obtained as a result achieved through the increased risk screening. The pregnancy,
by definition, is a period of great transformation, with multiple organic and psychological adaptation
processes, while sensitivity touches high peaks and anything, as small as it could be, may disturb the
equilibrium and cause psycho-emotional imbalances. Most often the diagnostic result of the screening is
most likely to infirm the screening and will most probably reinstall the psycho-emotional stability, but
mother’s already anxious attitude may have already affected the child’s future emotional development
and behaviour. Methods: The present study is a narrative analysis, based on a collection of data from
studies published in the databases of PubMed / Medline, SpringerLink, EBSCOhost, Elsevier and
ResearchGate. Results: From reviewing the studies, there have been highlighted three themes:
associated psychological effects, consequences and coping methods and practices and methods that can
influence the psychological effects. Conclusion: The consequences and psychological effects, closely
linked to the necessary diagnostic procedures and possible outcomes, require more interest from
specialists which are now more focused on the diagnostic component.
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