1. Explainer

Welcome to One screened every minute - this first explainer episode is the perfect place to start.

Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPT) - what’s the big deal? Host Elizabeth Callinan speaks with prenatal screening expert Dr Melody Menezes about prenatal screening options available to prospective parents in Australia and how non-invasive prenatal screening has changed the prenatal screening landscape. Melody clarifies the difference between screening and diagnostic prenatal tests. You can revisit this episode to clarify terminology and screening technology mentioned in upcoming episodes.

Elizabeth talks about her growing interest in prenatal screening. It all started when a paediatrician shared his suspicion about her daughter’s development.

Want to talk or need support?

Contact your GP as a first step.

For confidential crisis support that is accessible 24 hours a day, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or find online chat or text options at www.lifeline.org.au

Episode links:

My Greta: finding a world of possibilities (The Age, September 2018)

Risk and reward: DNA tests alone shouldn’t make our biggest decisions (The Age, March 2019)

The Upside aired on ABC in October 2020 and available on iview

Human Genetics Society of Australasia - Information on how to find a genetic counsellor in your state or territory

Music in this episode and across the series by Podington Bear