What is a TORCH Screen?

A TORCH screen is a serology panel used to detect infections that may pose serious risks during pregnancy or affect newborn health. These infections can cross the placenta and impact fetal development if acquired during pregnancy.

This profile includes:

• Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies
• Rubella IgG and IgM antibodies
• Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG and IgM antibodies
• Herpes Simplex Virus I/II IgG antibodies

These markers help determine whether a person has immunity from past exposure or a recent/active infection that may require medical attention.

Why do I need a TORCH Screen?

TORCH infections are often mild or symptomless in adults but can have serious consequences during pregnancy.

This test is recommended for:

• Women planning pregnancy
• Early pregnancy screening
• Suspected infection during pregnancy
• History of miscarriage or fetal complications
• Unexplained flu-like illness during pregnancy
• Newborn health investigations

Situations or symptoms leading to testing include:

• Fever and fatigue during pregnancy
• Rash or swollen glands
• Exposure to cats or raw meat (toxoplasma risk)
• Unknown vaccination status for rubella
• History of cold sores or herpes infection

Benefits of the test

1. Assesses pregnancy infection risk

Identifies infections that can harm fetal development.

2. Detects recent vs past infection

IgM and IgG differentiate timing of exposure.

3. Checks rubella immunity

Important before or during pregnancy.

4. Identifies CMV exposure

A common but often unnoticed viral infection.

5. Screens for toxoplasma risk

Linked to food and environmental exposure.

6. Detects herpes virus exposure

Important for delivery planning if active.

7. Supports safe pregnancy planning

Helps prevent avoidable complications.

8. Provides reassurance

Confirms immunity or need for precautions.

Expanded benefit explanation
Many TORCH infections produce mild symptoms in adults but can severely affect unborn babies. Early detection allows monitoring, treatment, or preventive measures during pregnancy.

Step-by-step — How testing works

We offer two UK-wide testing options:

Clinic testing
• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend appointment
• Blood sample collected
• Laboratory analysis performed
• Results securely returned

Home or hotel visit (+£60)
• Phlebotomist visits your location
• Blood sample collected safely
• No travel required
• Sample transported to laboratory
• Results delivered confidentially

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your results explained

Low / negative

No antibodies detected.

Interpretation:
No evidence of past infection or immunity. Preventive care and monitoring may be advised during pregnancy.

Normal / past exposure

IgG positive, IgM negative.

Interpretation:
Past infection or immunity present; low risk during pregnancy.

High / recent infection

IgM positive or rising antibody levels.

Interpretation:
Recent infection suspected. Medical follow-up and monitoring required during pregnancy.