Genetic Screening

If you want the safest pregnancy and the best outcome for your family, genetic screening at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates in Marietta or Powder Springs, Georgia, can provide them. The Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates team can provide peace of mind about your baby’s health or help you plan for future pregnancies. To learn more about genetic screening and what an invaluable tool it can be for your family, book your appointment today online or call the Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates office.

What is genetic screening?

Genetic screening before pregnancy helps you and your partner identify abnormal genes that could pose a problem for your future child. Also called a carrier screening, this requires a blood test and generally provides results within two weeks.

For couples who are already pregnant, a genetic screening looks for general genetic disorders in the growing fetus. This can be invaluable for patients with genetic disorders in their family medical history or another child with a genetic disorder.

Which disorders does genetic screening detect?

Genetic disorders result from changes in a child’s genes or chromosomes. If both parents carry a particular gene, a child may have an inherited disorder like:

• Sickle cell disease
• Tay-Sachs disease
• Cystic fibrosis
• Cleft lip or palate
• Spinal defects
• Parkinson’s disease
• Thalassemia
• Down syndrome
• Huntington’s disease

A prenatal screening lets you know if a fetus has missing or extra chromosomes. A prenatal diagnostic test confirms the presence of a particular disorder.

What are the benefits of genetic screening?

It is always your choice whether you want to pursue prenatal testing. Think of it as an early warning system. A positive screening indicates a higher risk of a problem, and you can then decide whether to pursue a diagnostic test.

Screenings give you time to consider the best options for you and your family and prepare accordingly.

The Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates team always aims to combine the highest standard of medical care with unwavering sensitivity and compassion. Never hesitate to bring your questions and concerns to your provider. Your peace of mind is worth protecting.

What should I expect during a genetic screening appointment?

The Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates team can perform a screening as early as 6-10 weeks into your pregnancy. They’ll usually need a blood sample to proceed. They will contact you with the results as soon as they become available.

To get in touch with the experienced team of physicians and learn what your next step should be, call the nearest Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates office today or book an appointment online to discuss genetic screening before or during pregnancy.

They look forward to caring for you during this special time of your life.