The Combined Blood Test

12 Weeks

This test is only performed in combination with a first trimester Nuchal Scan .

At the London Ultrasound Centre we have a unique and convenient approach to the First Trimester Nuchal Scan.

We make it easy for all our patients to have their blood sample for the Combined Test taken in advance of their scan appointment.

This service has been successfully trialled with patients one of London's leading Obstetricians since July 2008.

How does it work?

We send you a pack at booking** which contains instructions, a blood tube and a pre-paid transport envelope for your blood sample to be sent to The Doctor's Laboratory for processing.

What do I have to do?

Take the postal pack, which contains everything for your sample to be taken, to one of the following, whichever* is more convenient:

Your local GP practice by your GP
A Nurse at any local GP practice
A local Private Clinic
A local Private Hospital (e.g: BUPA, SPIRE, Nuffield, Ramsay Healthcare)

All the information the person taking your blood needs is in the Combined Blood Test Pack.

This way you can have your blood taken at your convenience, and near to your home before attending for the scan.

Can I give the blood sample anywhere else?

You may visit Patient Reception at The Doctor's Laboratory in Wimpole Street, London W1. This is a walk-in service and opening times are:

Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm
Saturday 9am to 5pm

There is no additional charge for this service.

What if I can only take one day off work?

Why not arrive in the morning to give a blood sample, spend the day at leisure in Central London, then attend your Nuchal Scan appointment in the afternoon or early evening?
This will allow the laboratory time to process your blood test and you will receive your final Nuchal Scan result on the same day.

What are the advantages?

The advantages of providing the blood sample in advance are:

You can give the blood sample at a time that is convenient for you
There is no waiting for laboratory to produce the blood results
The blood test results will be ready when you attend your First Trimester Nuchal Scan appointment
You will receive the full answer for your Down Syndrome Risk at the time of your appointment
Your appointment time will not be prolonged

When should I have the blood taken?

You should give blood no earlier than 10 weeks gestation or no later than 4 days before your appointment.

When do I get the results of the blood test?

There is no actual result from your blood test.
The data from the tests are fed into our computer and combined with your age and nuchal translucency measurement - hence the name Combined Test - to produce a numerical risk of your baby having Down Syndrome.

When will I have the scan?

We will arrange your First Trimester Nuchal Scan appointment at 12 weeks. Along with your blood taken around a week previous these are the most accurate times for ultrasound measurements and the blood tests.

Is this for me?

Have your First Trimester Nuchal Scan and Down Syndrome Screening at The London Ultrasound Centre and you will not only receive an accurate and reliable screening, but also a convenient and fast service.

How do I book?

Please call bookings on 020 7935 4450.

For bookings information and prices please see our Prices page.