Prenatal Diagnostics in Essen
Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
with a Specialisation in
Prenatal Diagnostics and Perinatal Medicine
DEGUM II · FMF London (ETS Stufe II)
Note: The links on this page lead to pages in German.
We welcome patients of all nationalities.
If you do not speak German, please bring a translator to ensure clear communication and the best possible care.
About Us
Who We Are
Dr. med. Christiane Achenbach is a specialist in obstetrics and gynaecology with a focus on prenatal diagnostics and perinatal medicine. Her prenatal ultrasound diagnostics are performed to DEGUM Level II standards — one of the highest recognised levels of specialist qualification in prenatal ultrasound diagnostics in Germany. She is also certified by the Fetal Medicine Foundation London (FMF) and under the first-trimester screening programme (ETS Level II).
The practice is headed by Dr. med. Christiane Achenbach. She also holds the qualification to provide specialty-specific genetic counselling. She is supported by an experienced practice team.
Our practice places the utmost importance on calm, clear and transparent counselling. We take time for you, explain every step and answer all your questions — so that you can make informed and autonomous decisions.
Counselling & Non-Invasive Diagnostics
These examinations support early assessment and counselling and do not involve invasive procedures.
Basic Genetic Counselling in Prenatal Diagnostics
Individual counselling on genetic questions before or during pregnancy.
First-Trimester Screening
A combined examination in the first trimester to assess risk.
NIPT – Non-Invasive Prenatal Test
A blood test to investigate certain chromosomal differences.
Pre-Eclampsia Screening
Assessment of the individual risk of developing pre-eclampsia during pregnancy.
Ultrasound-Based Examinations
High-resolution ultrasound techniques allow a detailed assessment of the baby’s development and supply in the womb.
Detailed Ultrasound Examination
An extended ultrasound examination to assess fetal anatomy.
Doppler Ultrasound
Examination of maternal and fetal blood flow.
Echocardiography
A specialised ultrasound examination of the baby’s heart.
Invasive Prenatal Diagnostic Procedures
Invasive examinations are performed only when there is an appropriate medical indication and after comprehensive medical counselling.
Chorionic Villus Sampling
Collection of placental tissue for genetic diagnosis.
Amniocentesis
Examination of amniotic fluid to investigate genetic questions.
Umbilical Cord Puncture
Collection of fetal blood from the umbilical cord in specific situations.
Amniotic Fluid Drainage
Drainage of amniotic fluid for certain medical indications.
Amniotic Fluid Replenishment
Replenishment of amniotic fluid to improve diagnostic or therapeutic options.
Intrauterine Therapy
For selected findings, further diagnostic or therapeutic measures may already be necessary during pregnancy.
Intrauterine Transfusion
Treatment of certain fetal conditions by blood transfusion in the womb.
Catheter Placement
Specialised intrauterine interventions carried out in close interdisciplinary collaboration.
Individual Counselling &
Appointments
We will discuss in detail during your medical consultation which examinations are appropriate for you personally. Our aim is to provide transparent, clear and individual counselling.
Prenatal Diagnostics Near You
Our prenatal centre in Essen regularly cares for patients from throughout the Ruhr area.
We are also easy to reach in around 30 minutes from Bochum, Gelsenkirchen, Duisburg, Oberhausen, Mülheim an der Ruhr and Düsseldorf.
Clinic Hours
Monday
7:30 am–4:00 pm
Tuesday
7:30 am–4:00 pm
Wednesday
7:30 am–4:00 pm
Thursday
7:30 am–4:00 pm
Friday
7:30 am–2:00 pm
Frequently Asked Questions
For many prenatal diagnostic examinations, a referral from the gynaecologist providing your care is advisable or required. In some cases, appointments can also be arranged without a referral.
We will be happy to let you know in advance by telephone or when arranging your appointment which documents you need to bring.
Prenatal diagnostic examinations can be advisable at different stages of pregnancy. Which examinations may be suitable for you depends, among other factors, on the week of pregnancy, your individual situation and any pre-existing conditions or abnormalities.
In a personal consultation, we will discuss with you which diagnostic procedures are medically appropriate and which examinations are recommended for you.
Some prenatal diagnostic examinations are covered by health insurers when there is an appropriate medical indication. Other examinations are classified as individual health services (IGeL) and must be paid for privately.
We will discuss transparently and in detail during your personal consultation which services are relevant to you and how costs are handled in your individual case.