In most cases clubfoot is an isolated problem but it is also an abnormality which is present in other, more serious conditions so if your baby has been diagnosed with clubfoot during a routine scan, more checks may be offered to find out whether she/he has other problems. The nature of the tests depend on the policy of the individual healthcare provider but may include:

A further ultrasound

Invasive tests using ultrasound as a guide such as:

Amniocentesis - amniotic fluid is drawn from the uterus for analysis.

Chorionic Villus Sampling -, the health care provider inserts a thin tube through the vagina and cervix to take a tiny tissue sample from outside the sac where the baby develops.

Foetal Blood Sampling - a sample of blood is taken from the foetus for testing

Should I have the tests done?

'each person should make an informed decision about screening based upon appreciation of the risks and benefits,' National Institute of Clinical Excellence.

The Risks

There is a risk of about 1% of suffering a miscarriage when invasive testing is carried out

Uncertainty can still remain after testing as false-positives and false-negatives are possible

The Benefits

Knowing about any problems your baby may have allows you to prepare for the birth and find out about the condition and treatment options

You can find out about these tests in more detail from our Prenatal Diagnosis Leaflet

Can you tell how severe the clubfoot will be?

Not with a prenatal scan, you will have to wait until your baby is born.

Can my baby be treated before the birth?

Not at the time of writing, but treatment usually begins soon afterwards so it is a good idea to start to find out about the hospital and doctor you are going to be referred to, make any fact-finding visits you wish to and seek information and support.

written 21/3/06. We gratefully acknowledge the steps medical panel for their assistance in putting this information together