Finally, the Rate of Sickle Cells Can be Reduced Through Prenatal Genotype Testing.

In the olden days, our grandparents married and reproduced without knowing either theirs or their babies’ genotype.

That single act leads to the death of so many children because of sickle cell anemia or other thalassemia diseases. Thank God for introducing western education in Africa, now you can know your genotype in a few minutes no matter where you are.

Here in Nigeria, couples who could not check their genotype compatibility before marriage can easily go for prenatal genotype testing in Nigeria to know the hemoglobin of their baby before birth.

Prenatal Genotype Testing in Nigeria for Sickle Cell Disease

This is an act of testing the genotype of an unborn baby to know if sickle cell anemia affects him or her.

This DNA test is done by analyzing the hemoglobin genes of the unborn baby to check for abnormalities.

The test is of two types, the Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) and the Amniocentesis.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

CVS tests are usually done in the first trimester of pregnancy, within 9th to 13th weeks.

It is done by a trained Obstetrician, using the trans-abdominal route under ultrasound guide.

He inserts a long, thin tube into the vagina and via the cervix, collects samples of a chorionic villus from the bark of the sac where the baby grows.

Local anesthesia is usually applied before the test to reduce pain. The woman can stand up and leave a few minutes after sample collection. However, she must abstain from sex and any other stressful work for a few days to reduce the risk of miscarriage.

The result usually comes out within one to two weeks after the test so that the couples can know if their baby is a carrier and possibly decide either to remove or keep the baby.

How safe is CVS testing in Nigeria?

CVS test is safe however, some women may experience mild bleeding after the test. This test has a higher risk of 1- 3% of miscarriage than amniocentesis, although other factors may also cause miscarriage.

Amniocentesis Genotype Test Procedure

This test involves inserting a needle into the abdomen of the woman to draw a small amount of amniotic fluid.

It is done in the second trimester, within 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, using ultrasound as a guide.

Some women may feel mild cramping after the test, but the test is 99% safer than CVS with little risk of 0.5 to 1% in 200 persons.

How much is the genotype test in Nigeria

The cost of a genotype test in Nigeria is between #200,000 to # 300,000, which is between 600 and 900 dollars.

Where can I do the test in Lagos state?

Fetal genotype testing can be done in any of the under-listed centers