Survey on Knowledge and Awareness of Prenatal Testing and Fetal Health
From the moment pregnancy is confirmed, many people wonder, "Is the baby healthy?"
In recent years, the options for prenatal testing have expanded beyond ultrasounds and standard blood tests to include NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing). However, how much information do families actually have when they become pregnant, and what is their mindset when approaching these tests?
In collaboration with Hiraishi Children's Clinic, we conducted a survey on "Prenatal Testing and Interest in Fetal Health," targeting 300 men and women across Japan who have experienced pregnancy or whose partner has experienced pregnancy.
Survey Overview
- Methodology: Online survey - Period: April 5, 2026 – April 12, 2026 - Target: Men and women nationwide who have experienced pregnancy or whose partner has experienced pregnancy - Valid responses: 300 samples
69.7% Received Standard Pregnancy Checkups Only
When asked about the extent of testing conducted to monitor fetal health, 69.7% of respondents stated they only received standard pregnancy checkups. Other responses included "None" (12.3%), "Broad range of tests" (10.0%), and "Minimum necessary tests" (8.0%). While many received the standard range of care, over 10% received no testing, indicating differences in perspectives and circumstances.
51.7% Had No Prior Information on Prenatal Testing
When asked about their level of prior knowledge regarding prenatal testing, 51.7% of respondents said they had "not much" or "almost no" information (26.7% and 25.0%, respectively), compared to those who had "sufficient" (6.0%) or "some" (42.3%) knowledge. This shows that more than half of pregnant families pass through this stage without sufficient information.
68.3% Only Know the Names or Have Little Knowledge of Test Types
When asked about their awareness of available prenatal test types (e.g., traditional tests vs. NIPT), 68.3% of respondents said they had "almost no knowledge" (35.3%) or "only heard the names" (33.0%). Only 25.0% had "some knowledge" and 6.7% had "deep knowledge," indicating that most people do not understand the specifics of these tests.
61.1% Cannot Explain the Differences Between Tests
Among those who claimed to know about prenatal testing, 61.1% responded that they were "unable to explain" the differences between the various test types.
FACT BOX
- Source: PR TIMES
- Category: Survey