What is a primary reason for conducting pre-natal genetic testing?

Conducting pre-natal genetic testing primarily serves to assess potential health risks to the fetus. This type of testing allows healthcare providers to identify genetic conditions or chromosomal abnormalities that may affect the developing baby. Such information is critical as it helps parents understand whether there are any risks associated with the pregnancy and what potential health issues the newborn might face.

This proactive approach enables healthcare teams to formulate a management plan during pregnancy or prepare for interventions immediately after delivery, ensuring that both the baby and parents have access to the necessary care and support. By identifying conditions like Down syndrome or cystic fibrosis prenatally, parents can make informed decisions regarding their pregnancy and prepare for various outcomes.

In contrast, other options, while they may involve related topics in prenatal care, do not focus directly on the fundamental goal of prenatal genetic testing. For example, financial options or prenatal classes, while important, do not address the immediate health implications of genetic testing. Predicting developmental milestones also deviates from the primary purpose, as it focuses on the future rather than assessing current health risks based on genetic information.