Prenatal genetic diagnosis for all pregnancies is not possible but there are several generally accepted indications for such testing.

1. Maternal age of 35 or greater at the time of expected delivery.

2. History of previous child with a chromosome abnormality.

3. A parent who is a carrier of a chromosomal rearrangement.

4. Mother who is a carrier of a sex-linked disease such as Hemophilia or Muscular Dystrophy.

5.  Parents who are carriers of a genetic disorder such as Tay Sachs or Cystic Fibrosis which can be diagnosed prenatally.

6.  Family history of spina bifida or anencephaly (abnormal formation of brain or spinal cord).

7.  Maternal blood tests indications increased risk for fetal problems.

8.  Fetal ultrasound findings for which follow-up testing is recommended.