The Health Council of the Netherlands has advised against permanently introducing the 13-week prenatal ultrasound scan into the national screening program. Following an extensive evaluation, the council concluded that results from the 13-week scan are frequently inaccurate. Consequently, experts determined that the potential benefits do not outweigh the psychological and medical drawbacks for pregnant women.
High rates of false results undermine early screening goals
Historically, pregnant women in the Netherlands received their first detailed anomaly scan around 20 weeks. The government introduced the 13-week scan to detect severe fetal abnormalities earlier, giving parents more time to make informed decisions or consider pregnancy termination. However, research commissioned by the Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport (VWS) revealed that the early scan missed a significant number of defects while generating too many false alarms.
First-year study reveals 775 false positives and missed defects
Data from nearly 130,000 scans performed between 2021 and 2022 showed significant accuracy issues:
- False positives: Technicians recorded 775 false-positive results, forcing families to undergo unnecessary follow-up imaging and distress.
- Missed defects: Scans missed over 1,100 abnormalities, including at least 150 severe conditions that should have been detected at 13 weeks.
Vice Chair of the Health Council Selma Tromp noted that found abnormalities remained low relative to total scans performed. However, the study excluded financial costs and analyzed only first-year trial data. Researchers noted that accuracy rates could potentially improve in later years as ultrasound technicians gain experience.
Government extends trial period through 2028
The final decision on prenatal screening policy now rests with the Ministry of Health. Health Minister Sophie Hermans confirmed that the 13-week scan will remain available within its current research study framework until at least 1 January 2028. This extension ensures operational continuity for healthcare providers while the government prepares a detailed policy response.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
