I. Introduction over the last several decades, the use of prenatal screening techniques to identify women at risk of giving birth to children with genetic and congenital disabilities has become a routine part of prenatal care. (1) Nearly all pregnant women are screened for risk factors and, among women of advanced maternal age, diagnostic testing of fetuses to detect abnormalities is now commonplace. The results of such testing can be used to decide whether to continue the pregnancy or abort. (2) Modern prenatal care also encompasses the decision to become pregnant, with many prospective parents seeking medical advice regarding the risk of their children inheriting a genetic disability.
