What happens if prenatal testing is abnormal?

First: you do not have to decide anything immediately. An abnormal result is not an emergency, and decisions made in the first hour are rarely better than those made after proper information and time. What should happen next: Confirmation, if the abnormal result came from screening. NIPT is not diagnostic — a high-risk result should be confirmed by CVS or amniocentesis before anything is decided. Proper counselling. ACMG states you should be given accurate, up-to-date and balanced information about the condition — including the full range of outcomes, not only the difficulties. Many conditions have a much wider spectrum than initial descriptions convey. If your obstetrician is not comfortable providing this, referral to a genetics professional is appropriate and you can ask for it. Detailed ultrasound, which may add information about how a particular condition is affecting your baby. Time. Ask how long you have to decide, and use it. Your options depend on the condition, the gestation, and the law where you are. In India, the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act governs the gestational limits and the grounds, and your obstetrician will explain what applies to your situation. Whatever you decide, ask about support — genetic counselling, condition-specific parent organisations, and psychological support. Many parents find speaking to families living with the condition more useful than any clinical description. There is no right decision here, only the one that is right for you.