Prenatal DNA testing in Philadelphia refers to the type of testing that occurs when a woman is pregnant to check the health of the baby. Basically, it provides information related to your baby health. At your first visit, your doctor will test a few things like your blood, any type of infection, etc. Apart from that, health care will also test gestational diabetes, Down syndrome, or HIV.

Types of prenatal testing:

• Screening tests: These tests happen to identify if your baby has a certain defect or not. It might be because of a genetic disorder. Screening tests usually take place in your first or second trimester. These tests involve blood tests and ultrasounds. There are three sorts of screening tests:
• First trimester– In the first trimester, health care will require your blood sample and will also do ultrasounds.
• Second trimester– In the second trimester, they will again do the blood test which is also known as the quad screen. This will calculate the four substances in the blood.
• Third trimester– In this DNA from the mother and fetus is taken to examine is there any problem in chromosomes like Down syndrome and trisomy 13/18.
• Diagnostic tests: If the screening test shows there is an issue or your age and family history puts you in a difficult situation and you will face risk while giving birth to a baby at that point in time diagnostic testing is required. It is the only way to find out about the diagnosis.

It plays a predominant role in pregnant people’s life and it totally depends on you if you want to perform prenatal testing or not. You can consult a doctor whether you should take this test or not as he/she will tell you the risks and benefits regarding your pregnancy. If you are confused then you can also hire a DNA testing professional who will guide you in each and every step during your pregnancy.