What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're expecting a baby and have concerns about spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), a serious inherited condition that causes progressive muscle weakness. It's often considered when a parent is a known SMA carrier, when there's a family history of SMA, or when earlier screening suggested increased risk. The test looks directly at the fetus's genes to determine whether the baby is affected.

What's included in this test?

This test looks at the SMN1 and SMN2 genes to see whether the fetus has enough working copies of SMN1 to avoid SMA, and how many copies of SMN2 are present, since SMN2 can partly make up for a missing SMN1. Together these two pieces of genetic information help determine whether the baby is likely to be affected by SMA and give a sense of how severe the condition might be.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your secure online account, with an explanation of what the SMN1 and SMN2 findings mean. If the results show the fetus is affected or the findings are unclear, the report will explain what that means and what kind of follow-up genetic counseling or additional testing is typically recommended. A full, downloadable lab report is available in your account at any time. Because this is a one-time pregnancy-specific test, tracking over time isn't usually needed, but you can revisit your results anytime through your account.

How can I naturally support a healthy pregnancy while waiting on genetic results?

While no natural remedy changes genetic test results, keeping up with prenatal vitamins, balanced nutrition, adequate rest, and regular prenatal checkups supports overall pregnancy health. Reducing stress through gentle activity, sleep, and support from loved ones can also help while you wait. These steps won't affect the SMA result but are good general practices during any pregnancy.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being received by the lab. Because this is a genetic test involving detailed analysis, turnaround can occasionally vary slightly, so check your account for the most current status. You'll be notified as soon as your report is ready to view.

Who should consider this test?

This test is most relevant for expecting parents who are known SMA carriers, have a family history of SMA, or received an increased-risk result from earlier carrier screening. It's also useful for couples who've already had a child affected by SMA and want to know the status of a current pregnancy. If any of these apply to you, this test can provide clarity during pregnancy.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

SMA typically isn't something you'd detect through symptoms during pregnancy — the need for this test usually comes from genetic carrier status rather than physical signs. However, if you have a family history of infants with muscle weakness, delayed motor milestones, or a prior child diagnosed with SMA, that history is a strong reason to consider testing. Genetic counseling can help you decide if this test fits your situation.

What is SMA and why does it matter?

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an inherited condition that damages nerve cells controlling muscle movement, leading to progressive muscle weakness. It's one of the most common serious inherited conditions and can range from severe, affecting infants very early, to milder forms appearing later in life. Knowing whether a fetus is affected helps parents prepare and make informed decisions about care and next steps.

What does it mean if the fetus has only one or zero working copies of SMN1?

Having zero functional copies of SMN1 typically means the fetus is affected by SMA, while the exact severity often relates to how many copies of the backup gene, SMN2, are present. More SMN2 copies are generally associated with milder disease, while fewer copies tend to be linked with more severe forms. Your report will explain the specific copy numbers found and what they generally suggest.

What should I do if my results show the fetus is affected?

If your results indicate the fetus is affected by SMA, it's important to seek follow-up genetic counseling and specialized prenatal care right away to understand treatment options and plan next steps. Early planning can make a real difference, since some SMA treatments are most effective when started very early. Reach out for urgent medical guidance if you're unsure where to start.

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 Fetal Genetic Test - Prenatal SMN1/SMN2 Screening

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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