If there’s a chance your future children could inherit a genetic disorder, would you want to know?

It’s a question many parents consider as they navigate pregnancy. While carrier screening is available before you become pregnant, some families choose to pursue genetic testing during pregnancy. It is a voluntary decision, and there is no right or wrong answer as to whether or not to go through with it.

Before making a choice about the testing, it’s important to understand what genetic carrier screening is and why expecting parents might consider it for their growing families. Here are five questions and answers to help you make an informed decision.

What is Genetic Carrier Screening? 

A genetic carrier screening is a type of test that can reveal whether or not you carry a gene for certain genetic disorders. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, most carriers for genetic disorders are asymptomatic, meaning they don’t show symptoms but can pass the disorder along to their children. For parents planning to expand their family, or for those already expecting, carrier screenings can provide insight into the chances of having a baby with a genetic disorder such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, and many others. 

Targeted carrier screening, also called ethnic-based carrier screening, according to ACOG, tests for genetic disorders based on ethnicity and family history. Expanded carrier screening, on the other hand, uses a single sample to test for several disorders unrelated to race or ethnicity. You can discuss the pros and cons of each approach to carrier screening with your Magnolia midwife before deciding which route to take. In some cases, you may feel that trying both best fits your family’s situation.

Should I Get Carrier Screening?

Carrier screening is a voluntary decision, with each set of parents choosing the right option for their family. 

The chances of being a carrier can vary based on ethnic background and family history, though some genetic disorders are common despite these factors. Anyone can be a carrier even with no prior family history, and carrier screening can help determine what this chance is for you. We recommend discussing all options with your Magnolia care team to help decide whether or not to have genetic carrier screening during pregnancy.

Is Carrier Screening Covered by Insurance? 

In some cases, health insurance plans will cover some or most of the costs for genetic testing, especially if it’s been recommended by your healthcare provider. It’s helpful to contact your insurance company beforehand to ask about coverage for genetic testing.

If your insurance doesn’t cover carrier screening, you may opt to pay out of pocket for the test. You may also consider learning more about the privacy protection laws in your state, and how genetic discrimination could affect your insurance plan. While the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) makes it illegal for most health insurers to make decisions based on genetic testing, it does not apply to life insurance, long-term care insurance, or disability insurance. 

How Much Does Carrier Screening Cost?

According to the National Institutes of Health, the cost of genetic testing can range from under $100 to more than $2,000. If multiple tests are necessary or if more than one family member is tested, costs may increase. Whether or not your insurance covers some or all of testing largely determines your final out-of-pocket cost for carrier screening. 

How is Carrier Screening Done?

While carrier screening can be done outside of pregnancy, many choose to test for genetic disorders during pregnancy. If you decide to go through with carrier screening, a health professional can test you by taking a sample of blood, saliva, or tissue from the inside of your cheek. A positive test means you have the genes for a genetic disorder, while a negative test means you do not.

According to ACOG, the partner who is more likely to be a carrier is usually tested first. No additional testing is necessary if the first partner’s test is negative. If the test shows the first partner is a carrier, however, the other partner is tested. If both parents carry a recessive gene for a genetic disorder, there is a 25 percent chance that the child will develop the disorder.

Miami’s Premier Natural Birthing Center

At Magnolia Birth House, empowering families with knowledge is one of our promises to you. If you have additional questions about genetic screening during pregnancy, we’re happy to answer and connect you with resources for more information. If you’re ready to take the next step in expanding your family, fill out our form to set up a free consultation.

Are you ready to learn more about prenatal care at Magnolia? To begin experiencing the benefits of Magnolia’s high-quality care, fill out our form to set up a free consultation.