FAQ

Maternal Fetal Care Center

FAQ

Who should meet with a genetic counselor?
What is the difference between a prenatal screening test and a prenatal diagnostic test?
I have no family history of Down syndrome. What type of risk do I have for having a baby with Down syndrome?
Is a prenatal genetic consultation at the Maternal Fetal Care Center covered by health insurance?
I don’t think I’m interested in having an amniocentesis. Should I still meet with a genetic counselor?

Who should meet with a genetic counselor?

Anyone who is concerned about diseases or traits in the family should consider genetic counseling and testing. People who may find it helpful include:

People who have or are concerned they may have an inherited disorder or birth defect
Women who are pregnant or planning to be at or after age 35
Couples who have a child with an inherited disorder, birth defect or mental retardation
Women who have had three or more miscarriages, or had a baby who died in infancy
People concerned that their exposure to radiation, chemicals, drugs or infections may pose a risk to pregnancy
Couples who would like more information about genetic conditions that are more prevalent in their ethnic group
Couples who are first cousins or other close blood relatives
Pregnant women whose ultrasound exam or blood test indicates their pregnancy may be at a higher risk for certain birth defects or complications

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What is the difference between a prenatal screening test and a prenatal diagnostic test?

Prenatal screening tests can provide people with information about the likelihood for certain birth defects and/or chromosomal abnormalities in their baby. These tests typically involve blood draws and/or ultrasounds during pregnancy. There are no major risks to the mother or baby with a screening test. These tests do not provide definitive results.

Prenatal diagnostic tests include chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis. They can provide definitive information about the baby’s chromosomes and/or other genetic conditions. These tests involve inserting a thin needle through the woman’s abdomen. In some instances, CVS may involve inserting a catheter through the woman’s cervix. These tests have some risks, the most significant of which is miscarriage.
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I have no family history of Down syndrome. What type of risk do I have for having a baby with Down syndrome?

Most people with Down syndrome are the first member in their family to have this condition. Down syndrome is not typically passed on in a family. So, people without a family history of Down syndrome may still have a baby with Down syndrome. The biggest risk factor for having a baby with Down syndrome is the age of the woman. As a woman’s age increases, the chance for having a baby with Down syndrome increases. Rarely, people may have a strong family history of Down syndrome and/or multiple miscarriages. These people may be at greater risk for having a baby with Down syndrome.
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Is a prenatal genetic consultation at the Maternal Fetal Care Center covered by health insurance?

Coverage varies by insurance company. Please be sure to check with your insurance company prior to your appointment regarding coverage of consultations with our genetic counselors.
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I don’t think I’m interested in having an amniocentesis. Should I still meet with a genetic counselor?

During a genetic counseling visit, you will receive information about a variety of prenatal testing options. Some of these options do not have major risks to mother or baby. A genetic counselor will not require you to have any testing you do not want. Rather, a genetic counselor will provide you with complete information about testing options so you can make decisions that are right for you and your family.

Last Review Date: Sept. 18, 2008

Online Editor(s): Christopher Sadler