• In case of tests for a genetic disorder that runs in families, you may want to consider discussing with your family to obtain details about family history.
• No special preparation is required to be done before the test.

• Genetic tests are performed on a sample of blood, amniotic fluid (the fluid that surrounds a fetus during pregnancy), or other tissue.
• In case of newborns, genetic screening tests are done on a small blood sample obtained by pricking the baby's heel.
• In case of prenatal genetic test, a small amount of amniotic fluid may be collected for testing by inserting a thin, hollow needle through the abdominal wall and into the uterus or a tissue sample from the placenta may be collected with a tube (catheter) through the cervix or through the abdominal wall and uterus using a thin needle.
• The sample is sent to a laboratory where technicians look for specific changes in chromosomes, DNA, or proteins, depending on the suspected disorder.
• The amount of time it takes for you to receive your genetic test results depends on the type of test and your health care facility.

• Physical risks involved is negligible in case of blood and cheek swab tests.
• Prenatal testing has a small risk of pregnancy loss (miscarriage).
• It may have emotional, social and financial risks eg. tension within a family because the results can reveal information about other family members in addition to the person who is tested , genetic discrimination in employment or insurance.

Avoid in case the doctor feels the risk is more than the benefit especially in case of invasive prenatal genetic testing.

• Negative result (no change in the gene, chromosome, or protein under consideration)