What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're planning a pregnancy or already expecting and want to know your chances of passing on Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) to a child. SMA is a genetic condition that affects muscle strength and movement, and many carriers have no symptoms at all. This screen helps you understand your carrier status before or during pregnancy so you can make informed family planning decisions.

What's included in this test?

This test looks at your SMN1 and SMN2 gene copy numbers, which are the key genetic markers tied to SMA risk. Checking these copy numbers matters because having too few functional SMN1 copies is linked to carrier or affected status, while SMN2 copy number can affect how severe the condition might be. Together, these results give a clear picture of your genetic carrier risk.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account along with an explanation of what your SMN1 and SMN2 gene copy numbers mean. If you're identified as a carrier, a common next step is having your partner tested too, since risk to a child depends on both parents' carrier status. You can download the full lab report from your account at any time, and since this is a one-time genetic result, there's no need to track it over time like other tests. If your results raise questions about family planning, consider discussing them with a genetic counseling resource.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for anyone planning a pregnancy, especially those with a family history of SMA or muscle weakness disorders. Couples who are already pregnant may also choose this screen to understand risks early. It's commonly recommended as part of preconception or prenatal genetic planning, even without a known family history, since most carriers show no symptoms.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Most SMA carriers have zero symptoms, which is exactly why screening matters. You might consider this test if a family member has been diagnosed with SMA, has unexplained muscle weakness, or if you simply want a clearer picture of your genetic risk before starting a family. There's no physical sign that predicts carrier status, so testing is the only reliable way to know.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being received at the lab. You'll get a notification once your report is available in your account. Genetic tests like this one can involve detailed lab analysis, so the turnaround reflects the careful review needed for accurate SMN1/SMN2 copy number results.

How can I naturally support my family planning decisions after this test?

While you can't change your genetic carrier status naturally, you can take practical steps like discussing results with your partner before conceiving. Keeping a copy of your report handy for any future prenatal appointments is also helpful. Learning about SMA inheritance patterns can help you feel more prepared and less anxious about next steps.

What is SMA carrier status and why does it matter?

Being a carrier means you have one working copy and one non-working copy of the SMN1 gene, but you don't have SMA yourself. It matters because if both parents are carriers, there's a chance their child could inherit SMA, a condition that affects muscle strength and movement. Knowing your status ahead of time gives you more options and time to plan.

What does a low SMN1 copy number mean?

A low SMN1 copy number, such as having only one copy, generally points to carrier status, meaning you could pass a non-working copy to a child. If both copies are missing, this can indicate a higher likelihood of SMA-related risk. This result is a strong reason to have a partner tested as well before or during pregnancy.

What should I do if my results show carrier status?

If you're found to be a carrier, the most useful next step is having your partner screened too, since SMA risk to a child depends on both parents. It also helps to keep your report accessible for any future pregnancy planning conversations. This result doesn't mean you or a future child will definitely be affected, but it's valuable information for reproductive planning.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

SMA Carrier Screen - Pregnancy Genetic Risk Test

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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