Down's Syndrome

(asked on 21st November 2016) - View Source

Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what support his Department provides to women who are (a) expecting and (b) have given birth to a baby with Down's syndrome.


Answered by
Philip Dunne Portrait
Philip Dunne
This question was answered on 24th November 2016

If testing during pregnancy indicates the baby will be born with Down's syndrome, the parents should be offered genetic counselling to allow them to discuss the impact of the diagnosis. They may also be offered an appointment to meet a doctor or other health professional who works with children with Down's syndrome, who can also tell them more about the condition and answer any questions they may have. This may include information on the support available.

We know around 750 babies a year are born with Down’s syndrome. For many this will involve an early intervention programme, which is a special programme that aims to help a child with learning disabilities develop, as well as provide support to the family, from health visitors and midwives.

An early intervention programme can include:

- speech and language therapy – to help with any problems communicating or feeding;

- physiotherapy – to help with any muscle weakness or movement difficulties; and

- individual home teaching programmes.

Related health conditions, such as heart disorders, and thyroid conditions, are supported by paediatric services and other secondary care.

More detailed information for parents is also available from NHS Choices.

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