modern technology to find answers. Prenatal genetic screening is an effective way to find out if your infant will have any developmental disabilities.
Expecting parents can talk to their OB/GYN about getting amniocentesis. This is a process where amniotic fluid is taken from the pregnant person and is tested for different genetic conditions.
Doctors can complete this without harming the infant and provide accurate results. This procedure is typically performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy.
If the genetic results indicate that the infant carries two recessive alleles and will be diagnosed with sickle cell disease, parents can use this information to plan for care and set expectations before birth.
However, infants born with sickle cell disease do not typically show symptoms until around five months old. During the first five months, the infant is protected by the fetal hemoglobin (a protein) which prevents the cells from turning into a sickle shape.
Knowing the genetic information of yourself or your children is a good indicator on what chronic conditions can possibly be passed on. Although we cannot change genetics, knowing this information is the first step to more knowledge and better care.
Genetic testing is covered by many insurance plans. Furthermore, for those who have a high-risk pregnancy for genetic conditions, insurance is more likely to cover tests. Talk to your OB/GYN or Primary Care Provider to get more information about genetic testing.