Should I consider prenatal testing for genetic disorders?

There are two important questions to consider when considering prenatal testing for genetic disorders. First what is your risk for having a baby with a genetic disorder? Consider factors such as family history for the presence of known genetic disorders, personal obstetrical history such a repeated unexplained first trimester losses and the findings from screening procedures. The second question is – what will you do with the information from the prenatal testing? Some couples use the information to make decisions about continuing or terminating the pregnancy. Other couples enter into prenatal testing knowing they will not terminate the pregnancy, but want the information to seek prenatal treatment and to prepare for the birth of a child with a genetic disorder. Because genetic disorders are found within families the decision to have prenatal testing for genetic disorders may have implications beyond the couple to the larger extended family unit. This is a difficult decision and needs to be made by the woman/couple based on the context of their individual situation and beliefs and within a supportive and caring environment.