Most people probably only know ultrasound test for monitor embryo growth during pregnancy. whereas, Besides ultrasound, there are other tests that are no less important to do when pregnant, namely a genetic screening test.
Genetic screening can be done before or during pregnancy. This test is useful for detecting chromosomal or genetic disorders that can be passed from mother and father to their baby.
Importance of Genetic Screening
Genetic screening can be done before getting pregnant. However, many only do so once they are pregnant. The reason is none other than to find out whether there is a risk of the fetus suffering from genetic disorders or certain diseases.
Abnormalities or diseases that can be detected through genetic screening include: Down syndrome, cancer, autoimmune, Harlequin Ichthyosis, hemophilia, and thalassemia.
In a genetic screening procedure, the doctor will first take a sample of the pregnant woman's blood to check for possible disorders. If the blood test finds any abnormalities or abnormalities, the doctor will recommend 2 other genetic screening procedures, namely:
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a genetic screening procedure performed at 15-20 weeks of gestation, by taking a small amount of amniotic fluid as a sample. Through this examination, it can be known whether the fetus has certain genetic disorders.
In addition to detecting genetic disorders, amniocentesis It can also be done to determine the sex of the fetus.
Chorionic virus sampling (CVS)
This genetic screening test is generally recommended at 10-12 weeks of gestation. CVS procedure is done by taking a small amount of tissue from the placenta. In some pregnant women, CVS can cause side effects in the form of stomach cramps, bleeding, or infection.
Who is Recommended for Genetic Screening?
Genetic screening is not a routine test for prenatal care. This test is usually only recommended for pregnant women or expectant mothers who:
- Age above 34 years, because the risk of giving birth to babies with genetic disorders tends to be greater.
- Had a screening test, and the results indicated there was a possibility of a genetic disorder.
- Having family members who suffer from genetic disorders or inherited diseases.
- Have had children with birth defects or genetic disorders.
- Have had repeated miscarriages.
- Have given birth to a dead baby with signs of a genetic disorder.
Genetic screening can be done to detect genetic disorders in couples who are planning a pregnancy or in the fetus in the womb. If you have any of the above conditions, consult a doctor for this examination.
