Journal of Pregnancy and Neonatal Medicine

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Opinion Article - Journal of Pregnancy and Neonatal Medicine (2024) Volume 8, Issue 6

Genetic Insights before Pregnancy: The Growing Role of Preconception Screening

Likuan Wei *

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital, Romania

*Corresponding Author:
Likuan Wei
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Emergency Hospital, Romania
E-mail: wlikuan@ueh.ro.co.in

Received: 27-Nov-2024, Manuscript No. AAPNM-24-155167; Editor assigned: 28-Nov-2024, PreQC No. AAPNM-24-155167(PQ); Reviewed: 12-Dec-2024, QC No. AAPNM-24-155167Revised: 17-Dec-2024, Manuscript No. AAPNM-24-155167(R); Published: 24-Dec-2024, DOI: 10.35841/aapnm-8.6.236

Citation: : Wei L. Genetic insights before pregnancy: The growing role of preconception screening. J Preg Neonatal Med. 2024;8(6):236

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Introduction

Preconception genetic screening has emerged as a crucial tool for improving pregnancy outcomes and advancing reproductive health [1]. By identifying genetic risk factors before conception, these screenings allow individuals and couples to make informed decisions about family planning, fertility treatments, and potential health interventions [2].

One of the primary goals of preconception screening is to detect inherited genetic conditions that may affect offspring, such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or Tay-Sachs disease [3]. These conditions, often carried without symptoms by healthy individuals, can be passed on to children [4]. Genetic screening enables couples, especially those with a family history of these disorders, to understand their carrier status and explore options like genetic counseling, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), or in vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) [5].

As technologies have advanced, the scope of preconception genetic screening has expanded to include a broader range of conditions, including less common disorders [6]. The introduction of comprehensive carrier screening panels now allows for testing across hundreds of genes, providing a more complete genetic picture [7]. This has shifted the focus from reactive to proactive healthcare, giving prospective parents a clearer understanding of their genetic health prior to pregnancy [8].

Preconception screening can help identify potential issues that could impact fertility or pregnancy outcomes, such as blood clotting disorders or chromosomal abnormalities [9]. In cases where genetic risks are identified, couples can make decisions about their reproductive options, which may include using egg or sperm donors, undergoing IVF with genetic testing, or other tailored interventions to optimize the chances of a healthy pregnancy [10].

Conclusion

Preconception genetic screening is becoming an integral part of personalized reproductive healthcare, empowering individuals to take charge of their fertility and mitigate genetic risks, ultimately leading to healthier pregnancies and families.

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