How Reliable Is Prenatal Genetic Testing? What Pregnant Women Need to Know About Genetic Testing During Pregnancy by 30Seconds Pregnancy

Some people who are concerned that their babies may be born with a certain profound disability undergo genetic testing during the early stages of their pregnancies. Through these tests, pregnant women may already have a good idea of whether the fetus they are carrying has a high probability of being born with a significant disability. Some who find out that the fetus has a strong likelihood of a disability choose to terminate the pregnancy.

Concerns have been raised regarding the accuracy and reliability of prenatal genetic testing. Manufacturers of prenatal genetic tests guarantee that their products are highly accurate. For example, statistics show that a positive result for Edward’s syndrome, a chromosomal condition associated with abnormalities in the body, is accurate 98 percent of the time. However, various medical professionals argue that prenatal genetic tests are still merely screening tests, which means that they are not diagnostic tests that can make a significant difference.

Prenatal Genetic Tests

Prenatal genetic tests are not mandatory, but when you decide to take them, you may be able to know whether the child you are carrying is at risk for certain genetic disorders. While these tests are optional, some people make it a point to take them because they are highly concerned about lacking the capability to raise a child with disabilities. However, there are unfortunate instances in which health-care professionals misinterpret the results of the screening tests, which may lead to wrongful birth, entailing the parent to carry the burden and the costs of raising a child with special needs. In this case, it is not the tests that failed to yield accurate results. Rather, this type of incident is considered a case of medical negligence.

Routine Prenatal Tests

Unlike prenatal genetic tests, routine prenatal tests are mandatory because these tests help to ensure that you and your baby are safe and healthy throughout pregnancy. Some routine prenatal tests are scheduled during the first trimester, while others need to be taken during the second and third trimesters. Some of the things that a health-care provider checks with the tests include blood sugar level, as well as blood pressure. Alongside these tests, you also may have ultrasounds to check the current state and condition of the baby.

Questions You Should Ask

A question to ask your health care provider about the various tests related to pregnancy is the reason why you need to take the tests. You also can clarify with your health care provider what the results will eventually tell you, as well as what the results will fail to show. It is also a good idea to discuss what happens in case you don’t take the test or what you should do with the results.

Every child born into this world is considered a gift to be treasured, regardless of whether the baby is born healthy or otherwise. However, not all people have the capability to raise children, much less one with special needs, which is why prenatal genetic screening tests have emerged. It is wise to keep in mind weighing the pros and cons of all your options before making any irrevocable decisions later on.

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

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