Genetic Screening
Genetic screening is an important part of prenatal care, offering early insight into your baby’s health and the risk of inherited or chromosomal conditions. These non-invasive tests help identify whether you or your partner carry genes that could affect your baby and whether a pregnancy may be at increased risk for certain conditions. At Complete Care ObGyn, our Henderson OB/GYN team provides genetic screening with clear guidance so you can make informed decisions during pregnancy.
With simple blood work and expert interpretation, genetic screening supports thoughtful planning and peace of mind.
What Is Genetic Screening?
Genetic screening includes tests that look for inherited or spontaneous changes in genes or chromosomes. These screenings generally fall into two categories:
Carrier screening: Determines whether you or your partner carry genes for inherited conditions that could be passed to your baby.
Chromosomal screening: Assesses the risk of chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18, or trisomy 13. This category includes options like non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and first-trimester screening.
Most genetic screening tests are offered early in pregnancy as part of routine prenatal care.
Carrier Screening
Carrier screening can be performed before or during pregnancy using a simple blood test. Many people are carriers for genetic conditions without having symptoms.
If both partners carry the same genetic condition, there is a higher chance the baby could be affected.
Common conditions screened for include:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
- Tay-Sachs disease
- Sickle cell anemia
- Thalassemia
- Fragile X syndrome
Expanded carrier screening panels may include additional conditions based on personal background or family history.
Chromosomal Screening
Chromosomal screening evaluates the likelihood that a baby has certain chromosome-related conditions. Available options may include:
- Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): Screens fetal DNA in maternal blood for trisomies and sex chromosome conditions as early as 10 weeks
- First-trimester screening: Combines blood testing with ultrasound between 11 and 14 weeks
- Second-trimester quad screen: Blood test performed between 15 and 20 weeks
These tests are optional and provide risk assessment, not a diagnosis.
Who Should Consider Genetic Screening?
Genetic screening is available to all pregnant patients and may be especially helpful if you:
- Have a personal or family history of genetic conditions
- Will be age 35 or older at delivery
- Belong to an ethnic group with higher carrier risk for certain conditions
- Had abnormal screening results in a prior pregnancy
- Are adopted or have limited family medical history
- Want additional information to guide pregnancy planning
Your provider will help determine which screenings are appropriate and when they should be performed.
Understanding Abnormal Results
An abnormal screening result does not mean a diagnosis, but it does indicate the need for further evaluation.
Next steps may include:
- Diagnostic testing such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis
- Referral for genetic counseling
- Targeted ultrasound or specialist consultation
- Additional planning for pregnancy or newborn care
Our team will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your options and feel supported.
Supporting Informed Pregnancy Decisions
Genetic screening provides valuable information and time to prepare, ask questions, and plan confidently. Whether results offer reassurance or lead to further testing, you are not navigating this process alone.
Schedule your prenatal appointment with Complete Care ObGyn in Henderson, NV to learn more about genetic screening and how it fits into your care plan.