You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and health history with prenatal testing. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can make the best choices for you and your family.
General Tips for Gathering Information
Here are some tips that will make it simpler for you to talk to your doctor:
- Bring someone else with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask.
- Write down your questions before your appointment so you do not forget them.
- Write down the answers you get. Ask for help if an answer is not clear.
- Do not be afraid to ask your questions. Ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.
Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- Based on my age, and family and health history, which prenatal tests are right for me?
- What does each test look for?
- How reliable are the different tests?
- What happens if a possible problem is found?
- How accurate is the test?
- How long does it take to get results?
- What do you hope to learn from this test?
- Will the test hurt?
- Can this test hurt me or my baby?
- What are the risks?
- Do the benefits outweigh the risks?
- What will happen if I do not do this test?
- How much will the test cost?
- Is the test covered by insurance?
- What do I need to do to get ready for the test?
- Do I really need this test?
References
Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed March 25, 2022.
Prenatal tests. Kids Health—Nemours Foundation website. Available at: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/prenatal-tests.html. Accessed March 25, 2022.
Routine prenatal care. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/management/routine-prenatal-care-36. Accessed March 25, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Mary-Beth Seymour, RN
- Review Date: 02/2022
- Update Date: 03/25/2022