Genetic Testing
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Desert Perinatal Associates
Perinatologists located in Las Vegas, NV & Henderson, NV
A high-risk pregnancy can lead to a lot of worry about your health and the health of your baby. Pre-pregnancy genetic screening helps you learn if your baby will be at risk for certain conditions. The team of expert Perinatologists at Desert Perinatal Associates, with offices in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada, provide the latest genetic testing to give you a comprehensive understanding of your baby’s health. Call the office to learn more.
Genetic Testing Q & A
What is genetic testing?
Genetic testing helps you know whether you and your partner are carriers for diseases that may affect your child. When you get genetic testing prior to pregnancy, you and your partner achieve peace of mind or are informed so you can make important decisions.
Genetic testing usually consists of simple blood tests. Genetic conditions tend to be recessive, meaning both Mom and Dad need to pass on the gene for the baby to develop the disorder. This means that if both parents have a gene for a particular disorder, your baby has a 25% chance of being born with the genetic condition.
What conditions can genetic testing identify?
Standard diseases that genetic testing can screen for include:
- Fragile X syndrome
- Cystic fibrosis
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia
- Tay-Sachs disease
This is just a sampling, as more than 400 disorders can be identified with modern genetic testing.
Why should I consider genetic testing?
Getting screened before you become pregnant can give you reassurance when deciding whether or not to start a family. The doctors at Desert Perinatal Associates may recommend genetic testing based on your ethnic background and personal and family medical history.
What if genetic testing reveals both parents are carriers for certain diseases?
If you find out you and your partner both carry genes for specific diseases, you become educated on what it means to be a carrier. You can also learn more about the potential genetic condition, the risk your baby will be born with it, and prenatal tests that can check on your baby’s health, should you go forward with your pregnancy.
You may also use the information to consider other options like egg or sperm donation or even adoption.
Can genetic testing occur during pregnancy?
Yes, genetic testing can also be performed once you become pregnant and while your child is in utero. This can help you and the doctors at Desert Perinatal Associates to determine what prenatal tests are right for your baby. You may consider genetic testing during pregnancy if you have another child with a genetic disorder, are of advanced maternal age, or have a family member with a genetic disorder.
To learn about genetic testing, call one of the offices.
