Genetic Testing: How it Can Help During Your Pregnancy

Genetic testing is a common and important part of prenatal care, offering information about potential genetic risks for your pregnancy. The results can provide reassurance or help families prepare for specialized care their baby might need.

Genetic screening is often the initial step families choose. While convenient and generally accurate, screening can have false positive or false negative results and may not detect all syndromes. If a positive screen result is received, an obstetrician may refer you to a fetal center for higher-level care.

At the Colorado Fetal Care Center, a multidisciplinary team, including a dedicated genetic counselor, guides families through the process. The counselor helps interpret screening results and determines the next steps, which may include diagnostic testing.

Diagnostic tests offer a more definitive answer regarding genetic conditions and can detect a wider range of issues. This information is vital for planning monitoring during pregnancy, preparing for delivery, and arranging any specialized care the baby may require after birth.

Together, genetic screening and testing empower families with knowledge, helping to achieve the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby from birth onwards.