Want to know more?
The internet can be a great source of information, but it can also be overwhelming. Some online information on prenatal genetic testing is very technical and difficult to understand for the non-expert. We have selected these links because they are ‘reader friendly’.
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) US professional body
https://www.acog.org/patient-resources/faqs/pregnancy/prenatal-genetic-screening-tests
https://www.acog.org/patient-resources/faqs/pregnancy/prenatal-genetic-diagnostic-tests - Genetic Alliance UK charity representing over 200 organisations working to improve the lives of all those living with genetic conditions
https://geneticalliance.org.uk/information/service-and-testing/ - Genetic Support Foundation US website that aims to help educate people about genetics
https://www.geneticsupport.org/videos/ - Unique UK charity supporting families with rare chromosome and single gene conditions:
https://www.rarechromo.org/resources/
A final word on prenatal genetic testing
Remember it is always your choice whether or not to have any genetic tests in pregnancy. You should never feel under pressure to say yes or no to a test. Before deciding it can be helpful to think about how important it is for you to have the information the test might give you and how you might feel if the information you gain from a result gives a very uncertain outlook.
Although the amount of genetic information tests can provide is increasing all the time, doctors cannot always tell you how exactly a genetic change will affect your baby and this uncertainty can be difficult.
It is also important to know that even more advanced genetic tests, like whole genome or exome sequencing, will not always find a genetic reason for unusual findings on an ultrasound scan. No test can guarantee a baby will be healthy.