Our daughter was born prematurely and tragically passed away at just 8 days old. It wasn't until I became pregnant again that I was diagnosed with Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), also known as "sticky blood" syndrome. APS was the hidden danger that caused blood clots in the placenta and restricted blood flow, leading to her premature birth and ultimately, her heartbreaking death.

Imagine the sense of helplessness and the endless 'what ifs' a parent endures upon learning that timely diagnosis could have saved their child. APS is a known risk factor for miscarriages, preterm births, and other pregnancy complications. Approximately 1-5% of pregnant women who experience recurrent miscarriages are affected by APS, according to resources like the National Health Service (NHS) and the British Society for Haematology.

The care and support we received as parents, alongside the care given to our daughter and our wider family, was exceptional during an incredibly difficult time. The dedication shown by the healthcare professionals involved in her care, particularly in the period following her birth, demonstrated a true commitment to giving her the best possible start. We are profoundly grateful to Ayrshire Maternity and the Queen Elizabeth NICU for the treatment and compassion shown to us.

However, the solution is clear: include routine APS blood screening as part of the standard antenatal blood tests for all early pregnancies within the NHS. Early detection of APS can allow for timely intervention, such as the administration of anticoagulant medications, which could greatly improve pregnancy outcomes.

Currently, APS screening is not a standard practice within the NHS's early pregnancy screening protocol. By introducing routine testing, we can save lives, prevent avoidable tragedies, and provide peace of mind to countless families.

This change is not only necessary but achievable. National guidance can facilitate the addition of APS tests to standard antenatal tests for all early pregnancies. This is a crucial step forward in protecting the health and wellbeing of both mothers and their babies.

We are extremely passionate about this not only because of the terrible grief and loss we have suffered but because we have experienced first hand how this testing can result in a positive outcome. I was tested for APS very early on in my pregnancy and was given the correct treatment throughout which resulted in a positive experience for us as parents and a healthy baby boy. 

We urge the NHS and the relevant healthcare authorities to take this issue seriously and implement routine APS screening as a fundamental part of early pregnancy care. Your support can make all the difference. Let's work together to create a safer, more caring healthcare system for future generations. Support this vital initiative and help prevent future heartaches.

Please sign this petition to make APS blood screening a standard part of early pregnancy testing across the NHS.