Advances in modern medicine have made things possible that doctors in past generations would never have even dreamed could occur. One of these major breakthroughs is the ability to learn a number of things about a fetus during pregnancy that previously would never have been known until after birth. Through the use of DNA tests, doctors can learn much about a child months before it is even born.
Types of DNA Tests
DNA testing prenatally comes in several different forms. The majority of these tests include screening for several different birth defects, genetic illnesses, and chromosomal abnormalities. DNA testing can also prove paternity before birth and can also be used as an early means of determining the gender of an unborn child.
Prenatal Testing Options
Two kinds of DNA testing exist: amniocentesis testing and chorionic villi sampling (CVS.) During an amniocentesis test, a long needle is inserted into the womb through the stomach in order to retrieve amniotic fluid. CVS testing gathers material material from the placental tissue itself. Depending on the specific DNA test that is being done, either of the testing methods may be used.
Paternity Testing
Testing for a child's paternity can be stressful, but may be necessary as a means of relieving anxiety or fulfilling legal requirements. If the mother had several partners around the time of conception, she may feel at peace knowing who the child's father is. Identifying the father can also help in determining risk factors or potential genetic complications based on the father's family history. Determining paternity can have legal implications in matters of divorce and child support, and can also be used to secure a conviction in cases of rape.
Gender Testing
Testing to determine the sex of an unborn child has been available for years through ultrasound imaging, but because of the low resolution of ultrasound images it can be difficult to determine the child's gender until the mother is well into the second trimester of pregnancy. DNA testing allows doctors to take a blood sample from the mother and accurately determine gender a mere six weeks after conception. This can allow for a greater level of family planning, letting parents prepare for either a girl or a boy soon after pregnancy is confirmed.
Diagnostic Testing
DNA testing can be used to diagnose and in some cases correct a number of genetic abnormalities and disorders. Cystic fibrosis, hemophilia, sickle-cell anemia, and Tay-Sachs disease can all be detected through the use of DNA testing during pregnancy. Though most of the disorders that are diagnosed through DNA testing are relatively rare, the tests can provide additional peace of mind for mothers-to-be or can help with decisions concerning the treatment of these disorders or the termination of pregnancy.
Tags: also used, during pregnancy, never have, several different, Testing Testing, through testing, unborn child
