Declining Fertility Rate - key Challenge to the Prenatal Testing Market in the US

Reportstack has announced a new market research publication on Prenatal Testing Market in the US 2014-2018. The report pinpoints declining fertility rate as a key challenge to the American prenatal testing market. The findings are for the forecast period 2014-2018. The declining fertility rate and related drop in number of pregnancies is leading to a marked reduction in the demand for prenatal testing. Additionally, the risks related to invasive diagnostic procedures are also discouraging expectant mothers from undergoing these procedures. ”The US fertility rate fell from 69 births per 1,000 women in the 15-44 ag e groups in 2007 to a record low of 63 births per 1,000 women in 2012. This has been due to the changing modern lifestyle and the growing trend of having fewer children,” said a TechNavio senior analyst and report co-author. While prenatal testing helps parents and doctors diagnose chromosome abnormalities, it also has some negative psychological consequences. There has been increasing concerns that predictive testing might lead to higher suicide rates of among identified carriers. Additionally, diagnosis of a disability or genetic disorder could result in parents aborting the pregnancy. To determine the scenario for these vendors in the next 3-4 years, Analysts have conducted in-depth analysis of the impact of market drivers, challenges and trends featuring data on product segmentations, vendor shares, growth rate by revenue and an evaluation of the different buying criteria in the order of importance. To view the table of contents and know more details please visit Prenatal Testing Market in the US 2014-2018.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the fertility rate declining in the UK?

The UK, like the US, has seen a decline in fertility rates due to changing modern lifestyles, women choosing to have children later in life, and more couples opting for smaller families. According to NHS statistics, approximately 1 in 7 UK couples experience fertility issues, which also contributes to the overall decline in birth rates.

What prenatal testing is available on the NHS?

The NHS offers several prenatal screening tests free of charge, including the combined test for Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome, and Patau's syndrome, as well as the 20-week anomaly scan. NICE guidelines recommend these tests be offered to all pregnant women, though they remain optional and are your personal choice.

Are invasive prenatal tests like amniocentesis safe?

Invasive procedures such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling (CVS) carry a small risk of miscarriage, which is why many expectant mothers are cautious about undergoing them. The NHS advises that these tests are typically offered only when screening results indicate a higher chance of a chromosomal condition, allowing you to make an informed decision with your midwife or consultant.

Can I get non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) on the NHS?

NIPT is now available on the NHS as part of the screening pathway for Down's syndrome, Edwards' syndrome, and Patau's syndrome, following updated NHS guidelines. If your initial screening shows a higher chance result, you should be offered NIPT as a safer alternative to invasive testing, though availability may vary by region.

How do I get referred for fertility treatment on the NHS?

If you've been trying to conceive for over a year without success (or six months if you're over 36), your GP can refer you for fertility investigations. NHS funding for treatments like IVF varies depending on your local Integrated Care Board (ICB), so it's worth checking the eligibility criteria in your area, including age limits and whether you already have children.

Does declining fertility affect prenatal testing services in the UK?

While lower fertility rates can impact demand for prenatal testing services, the NHS continues to provide comprehensive screening to all pregnant women as recommended by NICE guidelines. The focus remains on ensuring every expectant mother has access to appropriate care, regardless of broader demographic trends.

What supplements should I take when trying to conceive in the UK?

The NHS recommends taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily from before conception until at least the 12th week of pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects. Many couples also choose prenatal vitamins containing additional nutrients like vitamin D, DHA, and choline to support a healthy pregnancy from the very start.