Becoming a parent is a journey packed with hope, excitement and sometimes, a touch of uncertainty. If you or your partner is over 35 and planning to welcome a little one, you may have come across the term genetic screening during discussions with your doctor. As a leading fetal medicine expert, Dr Tejas Tamhane offers genetic screening in Pune at Precious Clinic for Advanced Fetal Medicine.
Genetic Screening
Before diving into genetic screening, let’s first understand why it’s so important for parents above the age of 35. As we age, our cells naturally start accumulating small changes in their genetic material. While these minor changes generally don’t affect our daily lives, they can influence the health of a baby. By the time a person reaches the age of 35, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome begins to increase.
Now, let us emphasize: being over the age of 35 doesn’t mean something will go wrong. It just means that the probability might shift slightly and that’s where tools such as genetic screening become crucial.
Genetic Screening v/s Genetic Testing: What’s the Difference?
Genetic screening is a non-invasive test that assesses the likelihood of specific conditions. It includes blood tests as well as ultrasound scans – both of which can highlight any potential concerns early in the pregnancy.
Genetic testing, on the other hand, goes a step further. It is usually used to confirm whether a suspected condition is present and involves more detailed diagnostic procedures such as amniocentesis or CVS.
Why Is Genetic Screening Crucial for Parents Over 35?
1. Higher Risk of Chromosomal Abnormalities
As maternal age increases so does the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities. For example, a 25-year-old mother has about a 1 in 1,200 chance of having a baby with Down syndrome, while a 35-year-old’s risk is closer to 1 in 350. By the age of 40, the risk rises to about 1 in 100.
2. Early Detection for Better Preparation
If genetic screening reveals a higher chance of a condition, you can look into further diagnostic tests like CVS or amniocentesis. While these tests are invasive, they provide definitive results.
3. Options for Family Planning
If you’re planning multiple pregnancies or considering other paths like IVF, genetic screening can offer important insights, helping you and your doctor decide on the best approach for growing your family.
What Does Screening Look For?
The prenatal screening tests can look for Trisomy, neural tube defects or rare genetic disorders depending on your family history.
Is It Right For You?
Suppose you’re wondering if genetic screening is something you should do, the answer depends entirely on your personal values, goals and circumstances. For many expectant parents, genetic screening offers reassurance and peace of mind. For others, it can provide critical information to prepare for any potential challenges.
Will Genetic Screening Harm My Baby?
This is often a worry for expectant parents. Rest assured, most genetic screening methods are entirely non-invasive, involving simple blood draws and ultrasound scans. They pose no risk to you or your baby.
Genetic Screening Options:
- First Trimester Screening – This combines a blood test and an ultrasound to assess chromosomal abnormalities.
- Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) – A highly accurate blood test that can screen for specific chromosomal conditions.
- Second Trimester Screening – If any of the above two tests are missed, then this can be considered as an alternative.
Each screening option comes with its timeline and benefits and your fetal medicine specialist will help you choose what’s right for you.
Get Genetic Screening in Pune – Consult Dr Tejas Tamhane
Remember, pregnancy after 35 is not uncommon. It’s a path walked by millions of parents who have gone on to have healthy children. With tools like genetic screening, this journey can be made even smoother.
If you’re considering genetic screening in Pune or simply want to learn more, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr Tejas Tamhane, the best fetal medicine expert in Pune. Together, we can make this chapter of your life as joyous and fulfilling as it should be.
