There are many conversations had between an expectant mother and her prenatal care provider — for the most part, these are positive in nature and revolve around ensuring the health of both the patient and her unborn child. However, for every positive conversation, there is one a bit heavier in subject matter, one often discussed and debated amongst the medical community, between a woman and her partner, and doctor to patient — the screening and diagnosis of fetal genetic disorders and which course of action be followed.
All parents want the best reassurance for their pregnancy and to protect their unborn to their greatest capability. What is imperative is that a woman understands her options concerning prenatal testing and the risks and benefits inherent in each. In most cases, a woman has elected for testing after discussion with her provider, secondary to a sonogram that presented concerns indicative of an issue, or when another factor, such as familial or maternal medical history is in play.
Prenatal Information Research Consortium 