Non-Invasive Genetic Testing (Blood Test) - Have you heard of this?

coffee bean

I have always been against invasive genetic testing (amniocentesis and CVS) due to the risks to the baby, but my doctor mentioned there is a new genetic test being offered that is non-invasive.  It's a simple blood test, that screens for down syndrome and all kinds of other genetic abnormalities.  I'm not sure if it's widely available, but he mentioned that since I'm 35 that insurance would likely cover it.  I couldn't see a reason not to do it, so I agreed.  The test is March 5, when I'll be 13 weeks along.  We will also be able to find out the sex of the baby at that time.  

Here's an article I was just reading about it.  Just wanted to pass it along, as this was new information for me!

https://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/10/07/breakthroughs-in-prenatal-screening/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=0

Edited to Add: The reason it works is because "at around 10 weeks of gestation, about 10 to 12 percent of the DNA in a woman’s blood will be fetal DNA from the placenta."  I thought that was really interesting. 

coffee bean

That's good info - thanks @SmileyGirl18!

mariaculbreth

I had it done with my first. It's two blood draws and a u/s. But I think 13 weeks is to soon to tell the gender.

coffee bean

mariaculbreth said:

I had it done with my first. It's two blood draws and a u/s. But I think 13 weeks is to soon to tell the gender.

I assumed they could tell the gender as part of the DNA results, not the u/s?  I know 13 weeks is too soon for an u/s...

brachysira

I think they can see the gender but there may be  errors.  Check the over 35 and pregnant board, which is about 30% discussions of this test.

coffee bean

brachysira said:

I think they can see the gender but there may be  errors.  Check the over 35 and pregnant board, which is about 30% discussions of this test.

Lol.  Thanks, I've never ventured to that board.

Wow - just took a peek.  You are right!!

mariaculbreth

@smileygirl18 that could be what it was. But I am almost positive it checked for any early possible signs of downs

mariaculbreth

@smileygirl18 I see what you are saying.