Genetic Screening Services Offered in Tacoma, WA
Genetic screening is becoming a common component of prenatal care and is among the services available from Steven Maynard, MD, at Rainier OB/GYN in Tacoma, Washington. If you’d like deeper insight into your pregnancy and a chance to screen for a range of genetic abnormalities, call the office to set up an appointment today or schedule online in just moments.
Genetic screening during pregnancy assesses the risk of chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18, and trisomy 13, plus recessive disorders, using non-invasive blood tests and ultrasounds. These provide risk estimates to guide family decisions, with options including first-trimester screening via Unity testing, NIPT, and carrier screening, paired with genetic counseling.
These optional, low-risk tests are often insurance-covered for those over 35 or at risk, with Unity providing comprehensive recessive and chromosomal insights from one blood draw. Abnormal findings prompt counseling and tests like CVS or amniocentesis. Schedule with Rainier OBGYN to align with your timeline.
Genetic Screening Q & A
Why is genetic screening important?
While most babies are born without any type of genetic abnormality, there are a wide range of possible genetic issues. Genetic screening gives you information about the fetus and whether there is a high risk of certain birth defects.
Some tests are performed during the first trimester of your pregnancy. Blood testing and ultrasound imaging are common. Prenatal cell-free DNA testing looks at fetal DNA obtained in a mother’s blood to search for specific chromosomal issues.
During your second trimester, a blood test called a quad screen can be performed to check for specific substances in your blood. The results can indicate a higher risk of certain genetic abnormalities.
There are also more invasive screening options available for high-risk pregnancies. These include amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling, both of which carry a slight risk of miscarriage but can provide a more specific diagnosis of fetal genetic disorders.
It’s also possible for parents to have genetic screening before conceiving to learn if they have genetic issues that increase their risk of passing those issues along to their children.
What issues can be detected through genetic screening?
Knowing what to look for can help you decide when to come in for a diagnostic work-up. Some of the symptoms of uterine fibroids include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Difficulty fully emptying your bladder
- Constipation
- Frequent urination
- Periods that last longer than a week
- Pains in the back or legs
It’s important to note that these symptoms are linked to several gynecologic conditions. Always listen to your body’s messages, and take action when you feel something is not right.
How are the results of genetic screening used?
Advancements in genetic screening means that parents are able to glean a great deal of information early in a pregnancy. That gives you a chance to make an informed decision about how to move forward.
Every parent has a unique approach on how to address potential genetic abnormalities. Some decide to terminate the pregnancy, which is incredibly personal and difficult. Others will choose to seek early interventions, while some will plan treatment shortly after birth.
It’s also important to note that not all genetic testing delivers clear results. Some tests only indicate an elevated risk of a disorder. As you navigate your results, you’ll have Dr. Maynard’s support and guidance.
If you’re ready to learn more about genetic screening, call to set up a visit or book online in just moments.
When Is genetic screening offered?
First trimester screening: Offered between 10 and 14 weeks via Unity (a vendor) testing, combining maternal blood analysis for proteins like hCG and PAPP-A with nuchal translucency ultrasound.
NIPT window: Available from 10 weeks up to 22 weeks or later, analyzing cell-free fetal DNA; Unity NIPT excels early (10-13 weeks) for aneuploidies and single-gene conditions like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell.
Elevated risks from screenings may lead to diagnostic tests;
anatomy scans at 20-22 weeks evaluate structure and genetic markers, building on first-
trimester Unity results.
