Genetic Carrier Screening
Identifying Inherited Risks Before or During Pregnancy
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we help individuals and couples take proactive steps toward informed parenthood — with clarity, not fear.
Genetic carrier screening identifies whether you or your partner carry inherited conditions that could affect your baby.
This simple blood test, offered in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is most helpful before conception but can still be done early in pregnancy. Explore our gynecology services here.
Because planning a family isn’t just about hope — it’s about knowledge.
What Is Carrier Screening?
Carrier screening looks for inherited genetic conditions passed down in families. Most carriers are healthy and unaware they carry a gene — but if both partners carry the same condition, there’s a risk of passing it to the baby.
Common conditions screened include:
- Thalassemia
- Cystic fibrosis
- SMA (Spinal muscular atrophy)
- Sickle cell disease
- Tay-Sachs disease
- Fragile X syndrome
Testing is done through a simple blood sample from one or both parents.
When to Consider Genetic Screening
You may benefit from carrier screening if:
- You are planning a pregnancy or in the first trimester
- You have a family history of inherited conditions
- You belong to an ethnic background with higher carrier rates
- You’ve experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or unexplained infertility
- You simply want to understand your baby’s potential risks
Knowing early allows for informed decisions, counseling, and peace of mind.
What to Expect at KidsHeart
- Pre-Test Counseling: We explain what carrier screening tests for and what results may mean.
- Blood Sample Collection: A simple, quick blood draw — from you or both partners if needed.
- Laboratory Analysis: Testing is done at specialized genetic labs, with clear reporting.
- Results Review: We discuss the findings clearly and explain whether further steps are needed.
- Referral or Planning Support: If both partners are carriers, we offer genetic counseling and pregnancy planning options.
At KidsHeart, every test is backed by thoughtful guidance — not pressure or alarm.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
- Trusted genetic screening in a private, supportive setting
- Clear guidance before and after results — with optional partner testing
- Integration with preconception or antenatal care
- Access to specialist referrals if high-risk results occur
- Services offered in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi
We help you prepare, not panic — with care that respects every family’s values and hopes.
Dr. Nawal Hubaishi
Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynecology/ Maternal Fetal Medicine – Canada
Knowledge That Respects Your Choices
At KidsHeart Abu Dhabi and Dubai, our genetic carrier screening empowers couples with calm, accurate insight — helping build families on a foundation of trust and understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes — most carriers have no known family history. That’s why screening is so valuable.
You can still be tested in the first trimester. If needed, your partner will be tested next.
No. It shows whether you carry a gene. If both partners are carriers, further testing (like amniocentesis) may be offered.
No — NIPT looks at the baby’s DNA. Carrier screening looks at the parents’ genes.
No. It’s completely optional — we offer it to help you make informed choices.