Unlocking the potential for informed choices and a secure future for you and your family.
At the Centre for Women’s Ultrasound, we’re dedicated to empowering your journey toward informed decisions and ensuring the health and well-being of your family. Our newly introduced Genetic Carrier Screening service is a breakthrough in preventive healthcare, allowing you to take charge of your genetic health like never before.
Understanding Genetic Carrier Screening
Genetic Carrier Screening is a proactive testing method designed to identify heightened risks of three of the most prevalent and severe inherited genetic disorders in the Australian population:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Fragile X syndrome
Did you know? One in 20 Australians carries at least one of these conditions, often without any family history of the disease. Carriers usually remain unaffected by the condition but have an increased chance of having an affected child.
Why Consider Genetic Carrier Screening?
Knowledge is power. Discovering your carrier status through genetic testing empowers you to make informed choices tailored to your unique circumstances. For many, this screening provides unparalleled peace of mind. For those at a higher risk of having an affected child, it offers a crucial opportunity to explore various options.
If identified as carriers, you can discuss a range of reproductive options with your doctor, including:
- Natural pregnancy with or without prenatal diagnosis
- Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis through in vitro fertilization (IVF) to transfer embryos free of the condition
- The use of sperm or egg donors
- Adoption
Insights into the Screened Genetic Conditions
Cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and fragile X syndrome can significantly impact life expectancy and quality of life.
- Cystic fibrosis: Most common inherited disorder in Caucasians.
- Spinal muscular atrophy: Most common genetic cause of mortality in children under two.
- Fragile X syndrome: Most common form of inherited intellectual disability.
Understanding these conditions is key to taking control of your genetic health.
Medicare Bulk Billing Information
Medicare criteria apply. Contact us to learn more about eligibility for bulk billing.
Packages
VCGS prepair Carrier Screening
prepair 3
- Cost: Medicare bulk bill or $389
- Cystic fibrosis (CF), fragile X syndrome (FXS), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
- Time: 2 weeks
- Can test female only
prepair 500+
- Cost: $975 per couple if medicare eligible or $1364
- prepair 3 and additional 500+ gene tests
- Time: 5-6 weeks
- Test both partners together
prepair 1000+
- $1500 per couple if medicare eligible or $1889
- prepair 3 and addtional 1000+ gene test
- Time: 5-6 weeks
- Test both partners together
To download VCGS prepair Carrier Screening Pricing, click here.
Embrace proactive healthcare with Genetic Carrier Screening at the Centre for Women’s Ultrasound. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards informed choices and a secure tomorrow.
Common questions
Can't find your answer here? Our team is happy to help before your appointment.
Genetic carrier screening is a valuable option for individuals or couples planning to start a family, especially if there is a family history of genetic disorders or if they belong to certain ethnic groups with higher risks for specific conditions. It’s also recommended for those who want to understand their genetic risks and make informed decisions about their reproductive health. For comprehensive screening and guidance, the Centre for Women’s Ultrasound offers professional services to help you assess your genetic risks and explore your options.
Genetic carrier screening at the Centre for Women’s Ultrasound is a straightforward and non-invasive procedure that involves a blood test or a mouth swab. This test is designed to identify whether an individual carries genes for certain inherited conditions. The process begins with taking the blood test or mouth swab, which is then sent to a specialised laboratory for analysis. The lab examines the sample for any genetic mutations that could be passed on to future children. Once the results are available, the team at the Centre for Women’s Ultrasound will provide you with a detailed explanation of your results and discuss any next steps, ensuring you are well-informed about your family planning options and potential genetic risks.
Genetic carrier screening for the commonest three single gene disorders cystic fibrosis, fragile X and spinal muscular dystrophy is now offered at Medicare only charge for eligible Australians. More expanded testing carries an out-of-pocket cost. At the Centre for Women’s Ultrasound, we can assist you with the necessary information and provide information to help you navigate the process of genetic carrier screening.