In Ghana and Nigeria, “What is your genotype?” is a question many couples ask before marriage. It is a wise question. But many still do not fully understand what the answer means for their children.
What Genotype Means
Your haemoglobin genotype describes the form of haemoglobin your red blood cells carry. The common results are:
- AA — normal haemoglobin.
- AS — sickle cell trait. A healthy carrier who usually has no symptoms.
- SS — sickle cell disease.
- AC, SC and others — other variants, some of which also cause disease.
The WHO recognises sickle cell disease as a major health issue in sub-Saharan Africa.
How It Is Inherited
Each child receives one gene from each parent. When both parents are AS, every pregnancy has:
- a 1 in 4 chance of a child who is AA
- a 2 in 4 chance of a child who is AS
- a 1 in 4 chance of a child who is SS
These odds apply to every pregnancy, separately. Having one AA child does not “use up” the risk.
Test Properly
Ask for haemoglobin electrophoresis (or HPLC) at a reputable laboratory, and keep the result. A rapid “solubility” test can miss some variants. We have heard more than one story of a genotype that was later found to be wrong.
If You Are Both Carriers
You still have choices, and none of them should be made in fear. Couples speak with a doctor or genetic counsellor about options such as testing during pregnancy, or IVF with genetic testing of embryos where it is available. The point of knowing is to choose with open eyes.
Women With Sickle Cell Disease
Women with SS can and do have healthy pregnancies, but pregnancy needs close specialist care. Planning ahead with your haematologist and obstetrician is essential.
Genotype is part of the premarital and preconception picture we discuss in Why Every Couple Should Test Before the Wedding. Ask us if you are unsure where to start.
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At Ohemaa Fertile Home, we provide guided herbal fertility support rooted in three generations of traditional knowledge. We serve women across Ghana, Nigeria, and the diaspora. Reach out to us on WhatsApp for a free, confidential consultation.
