This is a blood test to see if you are a carrier of the gene for Sickle-cell anemia. It is generally performed at the first prenatal visit for women who are considered at risk. At risk women are of African, Mediterranean, or Asian ethnicity.
A normal test is Hemoglobin AA. If you are a carrier of the gene, your partner will be tested to see if they are a carrier. If you are both carriers you will possibly be offered genetic counseling to discuss the risk of your baby developing the disease.
Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, inc.
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