What are the key components of antenatal screening that I should discuss with expectant mothers during their first visit?

During the first antenatal (booking) visit, you should discuss and offer the following key antenatal screening components with expectant mothers:

• Measurement of height and weight to calculate body mass index.
• Blood tests to check full blood count, blood group, and rhesus D status.
• The NHS infectious diseases in pregnancy screening programme, which includes screening for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B.
• The NHS sickle cell and thalassaemia screening programme.
• The NHS fetal anomaly screening programme, including the option of first trimester ultrasound scan between 11+2 and 14+1 weeks to determine gestational age, detect multiple pregnancy, and optionally screen for Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome, and Patau's syndrome.
• Assessment of risk factors for venous thromboembolism, gestational diabetes, and pre-eclampsia, with appropriate advice or referral as needed.
• Discussion about smoking status with offer of referral to NHS Stop Smoking Services if relevant.
• Screening for domestic abuse in a sensitive and private manner.
• Assessment and discussion of female genital mutilation risk if appropriate.
• Referral for clinical assessment if there are concerns about cardiac conditions or other medical issues.

Inform the woman that she can accept or decline any part of the screening programmes offered.