When it’s done: In the first trimester or as part of preconception counseling
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that results in a shortened lifespan and illness due to lung and digestion problems. If both parents carry the CF gene, their child has a 25% chance of having the disease. In the US, about 1 person in 30 is a symptomless carrier of the CF gene.
A blood or saliva test is offered to all pregnant women to determine if their child is at risk.
