Fetal Diagnostic Testing

If you’re pregnant, fetal genetic testing can provide critical information about the health of your unborn baby. At California Maternal Fetal Medicine, Marwan Ali, MD, MBA, FACOG, FACMG, and the compassionate maternal-fetal medicine subspecialists offer fetal diagnostic testing to identify genetic abnormalities. To learn more, reach out to the friendly staff at the location nearest you in Folsom, Redding, Chico, Sacramento, or Davis, California. Call or book an appointment online today.

What is fetal diagnostic testing?

Fetal diagnostic testing is a medical procedure used to detect and monitor the fetal development and health of your baby during your pregnancy. The experts at California Maternal Fetal Medicine may recommend testing if you’re pregnant and your fetus has a higher risk of genetic disorders or if you have a family history of genetic disorders.

Genetic disorders may include:

• Down syndrome
• Cystic fibrosis
• Sickle cell anemia
• Tay-Sachs disease

These conditions can result from changes to the genes or chromosomes in the fetus.

Why might I need fetal diagnostic testing?

Several factors can put your fetus at risk, including:

• Hereditary genetic disorders
• Damage to the father’s sperm or mother’s egg cells
• Older age in the mother
• Having a previous baby with a birth defect
• Chromosomal abnormality in one of the parents

Talk to your provider to find out if you might be a candidate for fetal diagnostic testing.

What are the different types of fetal diagnostic testing?

The two main types of fetal diagnostic testing performed at California Maternal Fetal Medicine include:

Amniocentesis

To perform this procedure, your provider inserts a thin needle through your abdomen and into your uterus, guided by ultrasound, to collect a small sample of amniotic fluid. This fluid contains cells shed by the fetus, which are analyzed for genetic abnormalities and diseases, including fetal lung maturity or infection. This test is usually done between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy but can be performed anytime until you give birth.

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

In this test, your provider uses guidance by ultrasound to take a small sample of the placenta through your cervix or abdomen. Then, they analyze it for fetal diseases, genetic abnormalities, and health conditions. This procedure is usually done between 10-13 weeks of pregnancy.

During your consultation, your provider offers guidance on choosing the right testing for you.

What results can I expect with fetal diagnostic testing?

Normal results show that the fetus doesn’t have any detectable genetic or chromosomal abnormalities, reassuring you that you can plan for the birth of a healthy baby.

Abnormal results show an irregularity with your fetus and help you prepare for your child's birth with a genetic disorder so you can plan for your baby’s unique needs.

To learn more about fetal diagnostic testing, call the compassionate, caring team at California Maternal Fetal Medicine or book online.