Newborn Genetic Screening in London

While this test can be helpful, it isn’t the right fit for every family because:

• It does not test for every genetic condition
• A negative result reduces risk within what’s tested, but can’t rule out all causes of illness.
• A positive result can raise questions for the wider family and may require confirmatory steps and clinical follow-up.
• It is not suitable if your baby has any symptoms of concern — in that situation, clinical assessment should come first.

If your baby has symptoms, unusual growth patterns, or features that may suggest a genetic syndrome, the most helpful first step can be a clinical geneticist consultation. A clinical geneticist can:

• review medical + family history in depth
• perform a physical examination where appropriate
• recommend the most suitable test (and avoid unnecessary testing)
• provide a plan for management and monitoring, including referrals and follow-up

Positive – a DNA change is identified that is likely to affect health and may confirm a diagnosis and guide treatment or monitoring.

Negative: no relevant condition is found within the scope of this panel (not a guarantee of lifelong health).

What we don’t report (important):

• Variants of uncertain significance (VUS) are not reported
• Carrier status is not reported (this panel focuses on diagnostic/actionable findings)

Newborn genetic screening analyses your baby’s DNA to look for serious early-onset genetic conditions. It can help identify conditions that may not be obvious at birth. The goal is earlier clarity and earlier action when needed. This panel screens 200+ conditions, focused on findings that may change care.

Yes. London Pregnancy Clinic offers newborn genetic screening with clear guidance around suitability. Many families value support before and after testing. That’s why we recommend discussing testing with a genetic counsellor, especially if you feel unsure. This helps you avoid testing that won’t answer your real question.

Newborn genetic screening is usually done after birth, once your baby is feeding and settled. Some families prefer to test in the first few weeks for reassurance. Others wait until they have had more time to bond with their baby, and consider if this is the right test for them. We offer newborn screening at any time in your baby’s first year.

Turnaround is typically 2–3 weeks from the labs sample receipt. That timing can vary with logistics and lab workflow. You will be told what to expect at booking.

No. This newborn panel typically uses a cheek (buccal) swab sample. It is collected gently from inside the baby’s mouth. It is non-invasive and quick to do at home. Many parents prefer this approach because it avoids needles.

You will receive a kit with clear steps for collecting the swab. Try to collect the sample when your baby is calm. Avoid feeding immediately before the swab if your kit advises it. Label the sample carefully and send it back as instructed. If you’re worried, our team can talk you through it.

This panel is designed to screen a wide range of inherited conditions linked to early illness in babies and children. It includes categories like metabolic conditions, immunodeficiencies, epilepsy genes, cardiac and connective tissue conditions, hearing loss genes, and other disorders. Importantly, the panel is designed around clinically actionable diagnostic findings. That means results should be meaningful for care decisions.

A positive result means a DNA change was found that is likely to affect health. It may confirm a diagnosis or strongly suggest one. The value is in what you can do next, such as monitoring, treatment, or specialist input. We’ll explain what the finding means, what is known, and what is still uncertain. We’ll also outline practical next steps.