Carrier screening is a genetic test that identifies whether you carry a gene variant associated with certain inherited conditions. Carriers are typically healthy and have no symptoms. In most cases, it is impossible to know what you are a carrier for without testing.
When two partners are each carriers for the same condition, there is generally a 25% chance with each pregnancy of having a child affected by that condition. Carrier screening gives couples this information before or during pregnancy so they can make informed, empowered decisions.
The genetic test itself costs 1,495 CHF and is paid out of pocket. Genetic counselling sessions cost 200–300 CHF each and are covered by regular health insurance.
If both partners are identified as carriers for the same condition, your genetic counsellor will explain the full range of options available to you. These may include:
There is no single “right” answer, and our team is here to support whatever path feels right for you. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation.
Once your test is ordered, we will mail a simple saliva collection kit directly to your home. The kit includes clear, step-by-step instructions. You collect your sample, seal the tube, and return it using the prepaid shipping label included in the package.
Results are typically available within 3–4 weeks of the laboratory receiving your sample. You will be notified as soon as they are ready. Once results are available, a genetic counsellor will walk you through what they mean for you and your family, and help you plan any appropriate next steps.
Genetic counselling is a type of medical consultation with a trained genetics professional. Appointments typically last 30–60 minutes, during which the counsellor will review your personal and family health history, explain how genetic testing works, and discuss what results could mean for you.
Genetic counselling is designed to inform and support — not to pressure. Testing is never required, and a counsellor's role is to help you understand your options so you can make decisions that are right for your unique situation. We recommend speaking with a genetic counsellor both before testing (to understand what carrier screening can and cannot tell you) and after receiving results.
Carrier screening can be done at any point: before pregnancy, during pregnancy, or even after a child is born and found to have symptoms of a genetic condition. Testing before pregnancy is generally recommended, as it allows for the widest range of reproductive options and the most time to consider next steps.
Testing during pregnancy is commonly done, but some options, such as preimplantation genetic testing of embryos, would no longer be available at that stage. Schedule a visit with one of our providers to learn which timing makes the most sense for you.
No. Carrier screening and prenatal chromosome screening are two different tests that answer different questions.
Prenatal chromosome screening, such as the NIPT (non-invasive prenatal testing) or first-trimester screening, looks at the baby during pregnancy for signs of chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome (trisomy 21), trisomy 18, or trisomy 13. These are typically caused by a random change in chromosome number and are not usually inherited from a carrier parent.
Carrier screening, by contrast, looks at the parents' DNA for inherited gene variants associated with recessive conditions such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, or fragile X syndrome. If chromosomal screening is something you are interested in, that test should be requested separately, typically during pregnancy.
Carrier screening is unique in that it provides information about your own genetic makeup — specifically, whether you carry variants that could be passed on to your children. It does not diagnose a condition in you or in a current pregnancy.
Many other tests offered during pregnancy, such as first-trimester screening or cell-free DNA testing, look at the developing baby for signs of chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. Carrier screening is a separate, distinct test and should be requested independently if desired.
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