🧬 Prenatal Testing & Genetics: What to Know, What to Expect, and How to Support Each Other

Bringing a baby into the world is a journey filled with joy, curiosity, and—let’s be honest—a few big questions. One of the first stops along the way? Prenatal testing and genetic screening.

It may sound overwhelming at first (hello, scary-sounding science words), but understanding your baby’s health before birth can actually bring you peace of mind, help you prepare, and strengthen the bond between you and your partner. The goal isn’t to scare—it’s to empower you with information.

Let’s break it down, step-by-step—with sensitivity, clarity, and compassion.

First Things First: Why Talk About Genetics?

We all carry genes—some dominant, some recessive—that make us who we are. Most of the time, those recessive genes don’t cause any issues. But if both parents carry the same recessive gene, there’s a 1 in 4 chance that the baby could inherit two copies and develop a related condition.

This is why it’s helpful to explore family history and possibly consider carrier screening—a test that checks whether you or your partner carry certain inherited genetic conditions.

Examples of conditions linked to recessive genes:

Cystic fibrosis
Tay-Sachs disease
Sickle cell anemia
Thalassemia
Spinal muscular atrophy

Dos and Don’ts of Genetic Testing Conversations

DO:

Start the conversation early. It’s ideal to discuss testing during preconception or the first trimester.
Be honest with your doctor about family health history—even distant relatives.
Support each other—genetic testing is emotional, and it’s normal to feel nervous.
Ask questions—your provider or genetic counselor is there to explain everything.
Remember: Knowledge is power, not a verdict. Knowing your risks helps you prepare—not panic.

DON’T:

Don’t assume “no news is good news.” Many carriers of recessive genes have no symptoms.
Don’t place blame—genetics are inherited. This isn’t anyone’s “fault.”
Don’t go down a Google rabbit hole—talk to a medical professional.
Don’t make rushed decisions—take time to understand your options.

What Tests Might Be Recommended?

1. Carrier Screening (Before or During Pregnancy)

Checks if you or your partner carry genes for inherited conditions.
Usually a simple blood or saliva test.
Often recommended if there’s a family history or you’re part of a high-risk ethnic group.

If both partners are carriers for the same condition, more testing will be offered to check if the fetus is affected.

2. First Trimester Screening (10–13 weeks)

Combines bloodwork and an ultrasound (nuchal translucency scan).
Assesses risk for Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18, and trisomy 13.

3. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) (After 10 weeks)

Analyzes small fragments of fetal DNA in the mother’s blood.
Screens for common chromosomal conditions and sometimes sex-linked disorders.
Highly accurate—but still considered a screening, not a diagnosis.

4. Diagnostic Tests (If Screenings Raise Red Flags)

These are more precise but also more invasive:

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

Done at 10–13 weeks
Takes a small sample of placental tissue
Tests for genetic abnormalities

Amniocentesis

Done at 15–20 weeks
Takes a sample of amniotic fluid
Can detect chromosomal issues and neural tube defects

These are typically offered only if screening tests suggest a risk.

What If a Test Comes Back With Unexpected Results?

First, take a deep breath. Getting a “positive” or “abnormal” result doesn’t always mean something is wrong—it just means more information is needed.

What to Do:

Meet with a genetic counselor—they’ll explain what the results mean, what comes next, and all available options.
Talk openly with your partner—you’re a team, and this is a moment for unity and care.
Explore next steps with your provider, whether it’s further testing, early treatment, or simply more monitoring.
Seek emotional support—through a therapist, support group, or trusted community. You are not alone.

Remember: Genetic conditions are just one part of the picture. Many families go on to have healthy, happy lives no matter what path their story takes.

How a Partner Can Support Through Testing

Ask, “How are you feeling about this?”—and really listen.
Help schedule or attend appointments when possible.
Write down questions to ask the provider together.
Handle meals, chores, or errands when your partner is feeling anxious.
Be reassuring, not reactive. Say things like, “We’ll handle this together,” or “Whatever the results, we’ve got this.”

Final Thoughts: Genetics Don’t Define You—Love Does

Prenatal testing isn’t about finding flaws—it’s about gaining understanding, choice, and support. Exploring genetics can be an emotional journey, but it’s also a way to be proactive and loving parents from the very beginning.

Whether the results bring peace of mind or more questions, know this: You have options. You have support. And you’re not in it alone.

Your story is unique, your baby is already loved, and you’re doing a great job.

Bibliography

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Prenatal genetic diagnostic tests. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/prenatal-genetic-diagnostic-tests

March of Dimes. (2023). Prenatal care and tests. https://www.marchofdimes.org/find-support/topics/pregnancy/prenatal-care

National Institutes of Health. (2022). Recessive inheritance. MedlinePlus Genetics. https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/inheritance/inheritancepatterns/

Rappaport, M. (2020). Understanding prenatal genetic testing: What to expect and how to prepare. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing, 49(6), 478–484. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jogn.2020.09.002

National Society of Genetic Counselors. (n.d.). What is genetic counseling? https://www.nsgc.org/

Legal Disclaimer: The information provided by our nonprofit is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical concerns. We make no guarantees about the accuracy or completeness of the information and are not liable for any decisions made based on it. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical care.