continued:

Prenatal testing: Is it right for you?

Questions to consider

Prenatal screening tests for fetal abnormalities are optional. It's important to make an informed decision about prenatal testing, especially if you're screening for fetal conditions that can't be treated.

  • What will you do with the test results? Normal results can ease your anxiety. However, if prenatal testing indicates that your baby might have a birth defect, you could be faced with wrenching decisions — such as whether to continue the pregnancy. On the other hand, you might welcome the opportunity to plan for your baby's care in advance.
  • Will the information shape your prenatal care? Some prenatal tests detect problems that can be treated during pregnancy. In other cases, prenatal testing alerts your health care provider to a condition that requires immediate treatment after birth.
  • How accurate are the results? Prenatal testing isn't perfect. The rate of false-negative and false-positive results varies from test to test.
  • What are the risks? Weigh the risks of specific prenatal tests — such as anxiety, pain or possible miscarriage — against the value of knowing the results.
  • What is the expense? Insurance coverage for prenatal testing varies. If the test you're considering isn't covered by your insurance plan, are you willing and able to cover the cost of the test on your own?

The decision is yours

Prenatal testing can provide information that influences your prenatal care. Remember, though, some screening tests introduce the need for careful personal decisions. Ultimately, the decision to pursue prenatal testing is up to you.

If you're concerned about prenatal testing, discuss the risks and benefits with your health care provider. You might also meet with a genetic counselor for a more thorough evaluation.

A genetic counselor can help you understand:

  • The odds of your baby developing a particular condition
  • How the condition would impact your baby's life, including your baby's physical and mental development and quality of life
  • Possible treatment options, either during pregnancy or after birth

Taking the time to evaluate your options will help you make the best decision for you and your baby.

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References
  1. Ostrer H. Basic principles of genetic counseling for the obstetrical provider. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed April 30, 2012.
  2. Raby BA, et al. Genetic counseling and testing. http://www.uptodate.com/index. Accessed April 30, 2012.
  3. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Ethics. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 363: Patient testing - Ethical issues in selection and counseling. Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2007;109:1021. Reaffirmed 2012.
  4. Screening for birth defects. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq165.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20120430T1648141913. Accessed April 30, 2012.
  5. Diagnostic tests for birth defects. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/Resources_And_Publications/Patient_Education_Pamphlets/Files/Screening_Tests_for_Birth_Defects. Accessed April 30, 2012.
  6. Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. May 21, 2012.
PR00014 Aug. 14, 2012

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