Considering having a baby? Carrier screening is for you
Keeping your baby healthy is in your genes
In relationships, it’s great to have things in common. But when it comes to your genes, sometimes differences are a good thing.
Most of us are “carriers” of hidden DNA changes that don’t affect our own health. But if you and your partner are both carriers of the same condition, your future child could be at risk.
Comprehensive testing, made easy
The Invitae Comprehensive Carrier Screen checks your DNA for over 280 genetic conditions including cystic fibrosis, Tay-Sachs disease, fragile X syndrome, and spinal muscular atrophy.
This is the same test your Ob-Gyn may offer at your 8-week appointment—but there’s no reason to wait. The sooner you know your results, the better.
Most babies born with a genetic condition are born to parents with no symptoms of that condition.¹
How testing works
Step 1
Request a test online. An independent clinician will review and approve your order.
Step 2
Provide a saliva sample from the comfort of your home and ship it to our lab.
Step 3
Get your results and share them with your doctor. If you'd like, talk to a genetic counselor at no extra cost.
The leading Ob-Gyn organization, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, recommends that carrier screening be offered to all women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.²
What if I’m a carrier?
For most people, carrier screening provides welcome peace of mind.
If your results indicate you’re a carrier of a condition, the next step is usually to test your partner—since for most conditions, you both need to be carriers for your baby to be at risk.
If both you and your partner are carriers, Invitae’s genetic counselors can help you understand the exact risk to your baby as well as your options, including:
- diagnostic tests during pregnancy to be better prepared
- alternative conception options
