The Bundestag will debate on Friday a joint motion from CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens and Left on non-invasive prenatal tests (NIPT) for trisomies. Lawmakers demand data on usage and ethical impacts, as about half of pregnant women use the tests. Critics warn of overuse, while gynecologists emphasize counseling.
Lawmakers from all major parties have submitted a rare joint motion calling for detailed tracking of NIPT usage. These blood tests detect Trisomy 13, 18, and 21 prenatally and have been covered by insurers since 2022 for risk cases. According to Barmer, about 50 percent of pregnant women use the test, rising to 75 percent for those over 40. The proposers see misguided incentives and demand monitoring until 2027 plus an expert commission for ethical review. „It can be feared that pregnant women are recommended to take the NIPT regardless of medical relevance,“ states the motion. The German gynecologists' association counters: „The decision for or against NIPT is a self-determined choice of the pregnant woman after open-ended counseling.“ Wolf-Dietrich Trenner of the Down Syndrome Working Group Germany supports it: „That will hurt again.“ Estimates suggest a 90 percent abortion rate for positive Trisomy 21 results. Prenatal specialist Kai-Sven Helig advocates access for all: „Every woman has the right not to want a disabled child.“ Affected individuals like Adrian Hackenthal criticize: „This shows us affected people that our lives are worthless.“ Alexandra Althaus of the Down Syndrome Federal Association warns that fewer births hinder participation. Germany has an estimated 30,000 to 50,000 people with Trisomy 21, but no birth statistics exist.
