Navigating the world of genetic testing can feel overwhelming, especially when you are waiting for important health information regarding your future or your family. Myriad Women’s Health provides specialized genetic screening services designed to offer clarity on prenatal health and hereditary cancer risks. Whether you are planning a pregnancy, currently expecting, or looking to understand your personal health risks, knowing how to access and interpret your results is the first step toward informed decision-making.
The process of genetic testing involves several stages, from the initial physician consultation to the laboratory analysis and finally the delivery of your report. Understanding these steps helps reduce anxiety and ensures you can take proactive measures based on the findings. This guide will walk you through the various testing options available, how to use the online patient portal, and what to expect during the consultation process.
Overview of Myriad Women’s Health Services
Genetic testing services are generally categorized into two main areas: prenatal screening and hereditary cancer assessment. Each test serves a specific purpose in identifying genetic markers that could impact your health or the health of your children. By identifying these markers early, healthcare providers can tailor their care plans to meet your specific needs.
The Foresight Carrier Screen
The Foresight Carrier Screen is typically performed before or during pregnancy. This test determines if you and your partner are carriers of specific genetic conditions that could be passed on to your children. Most people are carriers of at least one genetic condition without even knowing it, as carriers usually do not show any symptoms.
Key features of the Foresight Carrier Screen include:
- Extensive Coverage: It screens for over 175 serious and clinically actionable conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, and fragile X syndrome.
- High Accuracy: The test uses advanced sequencing technology to provide a detection rate of over 99% for most conditions.
- Partner Testing: If one partner is found to be a carrier, testing the other partner is the next logical step to determine the risk to the pregnancy.
The Prequel Prenatal Screen
The Prequel Prenatal Screen is a non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) that can be performed as early as week 10 of pregnancy. This test analyzes small fragments of DNA from the placenta that circulate in the mother’s blood. It is a safe way to screen for chromosomal abnormalities without the risks associated with invasive procedures like amniocentesis.
Common conditions screened by the Prequel test include:
- Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome): A condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.
- Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome): A condition involving severe developmental delays.
- Trisomy 13 (Patau Syndrome): A condition associated with severe intellectual disability and physical abnormalities.
- Sex Chromosome Abnormalities: Screening for conditions like Turner syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome.
The MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test
The MyRisk test is designed for individuals who want to understand their risk for hereditary cancers. This test analyzes 48 genes associated with eight different types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, colorectal, and pancreatic cancer. By combining genetic data with your personal and family history, the test provides a comprehensive risk assessment.
How to Access Your Test Results
Once your sample has been sent to the laboratory, the typical turnaround time for results is between one and two weeks. Accessing these results is designed to be straightforward through a secure digital platform. This ensures that your private health information remains protected while being easily accessible to you and your healthcare provider.
Setting Up Your Patient Portal
To view your results online, you must first create an account on the official patient portal. You will need the email address you provided to your doctor at the time of your appointment. Once you register, you can track the status of your sample in real-time, from the moment it arrives at the lab to the moment the final report is generated.
Reviewing Results with Your Doctor
While you can view your results through the portal, it is highly recommended that you discuss them with your healthcare provider. Most doctors receive the results a few days before they are released to the patient portal. Your physician can provide context, explain the clinical significance of the findings, and help you determine the next steps in your medical care.
Understanding Your Screening Results
Receiving your report is just the beginning. Understanding what the terms mean is crucial for your peace of mind. Genetic reports generally categorize findings into three main areas: negative, positive, or variant of uncertain significance.
What a Negative Result Means
A negative result means that the laboratory did not find any of the specific genetic mutations they were looking for. While this is often reassuring, it does not mean there is zero risk. Genetic testing focuses on the most common and well-understood mutations, but it cannot account for every possible genetic variation or environmental factor.
What a Positive Result Means
A positive result indicates that a genetic mutation was identified. In the case of carrier screening, it means you carry a gene for a specific condition but are not affected by it. In the context of the Prequel screen, it indicates an increased risk for a chromosomal abnormality. A positive result usually prompts further diagnostic testing or a consultation with a specialist.
Variants of Uncertain Significance (VUS)
Sometimes, the laboratory finds a change in a gene, but there is not enough scientific data to determine if that change is harmful or benign. This is known as a Variant of Uncertain Significance. In most cases, these variants are eventually found to be harmless as more data becomes available, but they require careful monitoring and discussion with a genetic counselor.
The Role of Genetic Counseling
One of the most valuable resources available to you is access to board-certified genetic counselors. These professionals are trained to explain complex genetic information in simple terms. They can help you understand the implications of your results for yourself and your family members.
Genetic counselors can assist with:
- Risk Assessment: Explaining the statistical likelihood of passing a condition to a child.
- Emotional Support: Providing guidance and resources if you receive unexpected or difficult news.
- Action Plans: Helping you and your doctor decide on the best course of medical management based on your genetic profile.
Insurance and Financial Assistance
The cost of genetic testing is a common concern for many patients. Most insurance plans cover prenatal and hereditary cancer screening, especially if there is a medical necessity or a family history of certain conditions. It is important to verify your coverage before the test is performed.
There are often financial assistance programs available for those who are uninsured or underinsured. These programs are designed to ensure that cost is not a barrier to receiving essential health information. You can often find a cost estimator tool on the provider’s website to get a better idea of your potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Taking the Next Steps for Your Health
Accessing your genetic testing results is a powerful way to take control of your health journey. Whether you are seeking reassurance during pregnancy or looking to manage your long-term cancer risk, these insights provide a roadmap for your future care. By using the patient portal and working closely with your healthcare team, you can ensure that you have the most accurate information possible.
If you are ready to begin the process, speak with your doctor about which test is right for you. If you have already completed your testing, log in to your patient portal to check your status. For more information on maintaining a healthy lifestyle and understanding medical screenings, explore our library of health-focused articles to stay informed and empowered.