Genetic
testing is a process which involves the examination of the blood sample from
the expected parents check for any abnormality in the jeans that lead to
various diseases and health problems in the baby. A special of the genetic
diseases known as recessive disorders need the passing down of the affected
gene to the baby by both the parents so as to make the child affected. Hence if
both the partners do not test positive for a specific abnormality on their
genes, it is unlikely of the child to inherit it and even if the abnormality is
found in the genes of both the parents, there's a mere 25 percent chance of the
child being affected by it.
When should I opt for genetic testing?
The
screening need not to be done during the conceiving period but can be done
before a women gets pregnant. This procedure is usually carried out by
gynecologist and obstetrician by taking blood samples of both the parents.
Usually a woman is testedfirst and if her tests are negative, the male
counterpart need not to be tested but in case the woman is tested positive the
male also needs to undergo the
procedure.
Why is it important?
Genes
passed down from the parents not only determine the various physical features
of the child but are also responsible for various diseases and
abnormalities which if not detected on time can prove fatal for the child.
If
both the partners are tested positive before conceiving it give them a wide
variety of choices such as test tube baby and sperm donation to ensure that
after the child is conceived,he/she does not inherit any of the abnormalities
Getting
tested after conceiving helps to doctor to provide all the necessary
information for the prenatal care of your baby and even helps to prepare you
for taking the proper care of the child. The child is also at a risk of
developing problems like sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis.
What needs to be done if both the parents test positive?
Even
if both the parents test positive there is no need to be afraid as there are
only 25% chances of the child inheriting the abnormality. Early detection
proves very beneficial as it gives ample time to the parents to prepare for
taking care of a baby with special genetic conditions. In case the problem is
detected before pregnancy, you can opt for other options which include
adoption, sperm donation etc.
What are the common diseases that can be diagnosed baby genetic testing?
Some
of the most common diseases that can be diagnosed through baby genetic testingare
listed below:
Sickle
cell disease - Sickle Cell anaemia is a blood disorder
which leads to decrease in the blood levels in the body leading to weakened
immune system.
Cystic
fibrosis - cystic fibrosis is a life threatening disease which affectsthe
lungs and the digestive system.
Thalassemia
- it leads to decrease in the blood levels with reduced bone growth and also
severely affects the liver.
