Question

1. In up to two paragraphs, outline the similarities and differences between preconception carrier testing and prenatal screening.

Answer 1

Outline the similarities and differences between preconception carrier testing and prenatal screening:

Preconception carrier testing is a genetic test that can tell if a woman carries a gene for certain genetic disorders. It can tell the risk of having a child with a genetic disorder.

• Preconception means the testing is done before a woman gets pregnant.
• Being a carrier means the woman has the gene inside her cells, but she does not have the condition, or she has very mild symptoms. she can pass on the gene without knowing she is having it.
• In this case, a screening is a test that is done to see if she has a condition even though she is not showing symptoms.

Prenatal screening can identify whether the baby is more or less likely to have certain birth defects, many of which are genetic disorders. These tests include blood tests, a specific type of ultrasound and prenatal cell-free DNA screening. Prenatal screening tests are usually offered during the first or second trimester. Screening tests can't make a definitive diagnosis. If results indicate an increased risk for a genetic disorder, the health care provider will discuss the options for a diagnostic test to confirm the diagnosis.