What type of testing is used to identify conditions before birth?

The correct choice is prenatal testing, which specifically refers to a variety of tests conducted during pregnancy to detect certain conditions in a developing fetus before birth. These tests are essential for identifying genetic disorders, birth defects, and other health issues that may affect the baby, enabling parents and healthcare providers to prepare for possible challenges or make informed decisions regarding the pregnancy.

Prenatal testing includes procedures such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis, as well as non-invasive methods like ultrasound and maternal blood tests. Its primary goal is to screen for abnormalities early during the gestational period, which can be critical for planning medical care or interventions.

Predictive testing, on the other hand, is focused on assessing the likelihood of developing a specific condition later in life based on family history and genetic factors, making it less relevant to prenatal circumstances. Diagnostic testing typically refers to confirming a condition after it has been suspected through other means, while newborn screening is done after the baby is born to identify conditions that can benefit from early treatment. Thus, prenatal testing is distinct and specifically designed for evaluating the health of the fetus during pregnancy.