Should we have the genetic testing and did you while you were pregnant?

What are pro's and con's? Thanks for your help.

First of all, genetic testing has nothing to do with DNA or who the child is going to look like, it's to figure out if the child will inherit a condition from a parent ;)

I honestly don't know; I was high-risk so I did have testing done but only drawing blood (thank God everything was fine). It's very personal; while I agree that if it doesn't make a difference wether the baby will have a genetic marker that may result in a birth deffect or another complication, it is good to be prepared--you don't necessarily have to have an abortion if the outcome is not what you'd expect, but rather be ready and prepared for a baby who will have special needs.

Whatever your decision, I wish you the best! :)

You're welcome! I wish you the best and tons of blessings for you and your baby ;) Report It

I had the testing for cystic fibrosis, and the blood work testing plus ultrasounds to look for birth defects.

I would not have aborted the baby if they were positive, but I would have arranged to have more specialized care and a specialized pediatrician available at the birth

I think the con is definately the extra costs but I felt it was worth it to either get used to the idea that something is wrong early to try to prepare for the birth as much as possible, or to ease any worries you might have. I am high risk so I think that factored into my decision as well.

Ask yourself if the outcome of the testing is going to change how you proceed with the pregnancy. For example, would knowing that your child has Down's Syndrome change your decision about having the child? If not, why bother with the test? If there is no cure for the condition and you'll have the child anyway, what's the point?

I didn't. Either way it was my kid and I'd love it. Abortion would never be an option, so I don't do the testing. I also think that if I was told there was a problem, I'd just panic and worry. Finding out after the fact usually works best for me because instead of getting all worked up, I just handle it and roll with the punches.

I wouldn't do it. Half the fun is finding out who your child looks like.

For paternity? I was told it was risky...Just wait until after the baby is born.