There are risks to most of the prenatal diagnostic procedures, and these risks should be fully explained to patients considering this type of testing. The risk of the test causing a miscarriage may be greater than the risk that the fetus is affected. This does not necessarily mean that the test should not be done. A 35- year-old woman who has finally conceived after three years of fertility treatment may feel that she would rather have a child with Down syndrome than no child at all. On the other hand, this woman may feel that it is morally reprehensible knowingly to bring a retarded child into the world. These decisions must be made by the patient. A physician who is asked for an opinion on what should be done should be sure that the patient understands what is medical opinion and what is personal belief.