paroolSep 22, 2026, 13:04

Health Council advises against structural 13-week ultrasound

The Health Council of the Netherlands has advised against the structural implementation of the 13-week ultrasound, citing high rates of false positives and missed abnormalities. Despite this recommendation, Minister Sophie Hermans announced that the scan will continue to be offered as part of a research program until at least 2028.

The Health Council of the Netherlands has advised against making the 13-week ultrasound a structural part of standard pregnancy care. An official study requested by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport revealed that the 13-week scan missed a significant number of fetal abnormalities while simultaneously yielding a high rate of false-positive results. Specifically, out of nearly 130,000 scans performed between 2021 and 2022, over 700 were found to be false positives, leading to unnecessary follow-up examinations and parental stress. While the study highlighted these diagnostic limitations, it did not factor in the overall costs associated with the procedure. The Health Council has presented its findings to the minister for further policy consideration. In response, Health Minister Sophie Hermans confirmed that the 13-week ultrasound will remain in place as part of ongoing research until at least January 1, 2028, to ensure continuity for medical professionals. The ministry plans to provide a more detailed substantive response regarding the future of the scan at a later date.

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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