SHOULD I HAVE GENETIC TESTING ?
We offer screening tests that may be used to estimate whether your fetus is at risk of having certain genetic conditions . These screening tests are not considered to be diagnostic or provide a definitive answer about whether your fetus has a certain condition . We strongly encourage genetic testing for patients with a family history of birth defects , a previous infant with a birth defect , diabetes , exposure to certain medications or chemicals , and women who will deliver at age 35 or older . Options for screening will be reviewed early in your pregnancy .
We offer the following tests to all patients :
Your provider will review all of the screening test options with you , including :
• Basic ultrasound
• Integrated screening – a genetic screening blood test and ultrasound during your first trimester
• Cell-free DNA – blood test that is done after 10 weeks of pregnancy
• Multiple marker screening test – this QUAD screen tests blood work between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy .
• Cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy carrier testing
Normal results on these tests do not rule out all genetic abnormalities , but they do allow early diagnosis of many genetic conditions . Further testing may be recommended by your provider . uabmedicine . org 55