Karen Lynch, a midwifery deputy antenatal screening co-ordinator, explains what is involved in a screening test for pregnant women.

Routine screening tests in pregnancy include ultrasound checks and checking bloods and urine. None of these requires an overnight stay and results are usually returned quickly to the expectant mother. Tests are optional but are advised.  

Screening tests enable medical professionals to check for conditions that may need treatment or further investigations, although they may not detect every problem that can occur. 

Karen was working at Warwick Hospital maternity unit in 2011

Due for review August 2013.