Determination of the race of an unborn child

Is it possible, through amniocentesis or another test,to determine the race of a fetus?  How early could this be detected?  Or, could DNA testing be done with the probable father?  A student of mine was raped by a person of another race and would like to know whose child it is so that she knows how to proceed.  Please advise   Thanks

[fitmama]

Amnio could be used to determine if the child is related to her husband or not, through DNA testing.

[chysmom]

Yes the only thing is amino but I have heard you have to wait so long into the pregnancy before getting one and on top of that it can cause miscarriage.  I am sorry she was raped.  Hope all works out for her.

[fitmama]

She may be able to have chorionic villi (sp?) sampling which is done earlier than amnio. I don't remember exactly what it would tell you. Would be something to check into.

[waterskigirl]

I am so sorry for what your student is going through.  She may want to talk to a genetic counselor about her options.  As some of the other ladies mentioned, amniocentesis and chronic villi sampling can be done to check DNA.  I think amniocentesis is best between 11 and 16 weeks (least chance of miscarriage).  I had to speak with a genetic counselor when I tested as a Cystic Fibrosis Carrier, I found her to be very helpful and talking to her really calmed my fears. A local obstetrician should be able to locate the nearest counselor for her,


I hope it all works out.

[D's mom]

it is very thoughtful of you to stick by your students side and post on her behalf. And it is absolutely wonderful she is deciding to keep the baby . I have you both in my prayers. Listen to the posts of these gals, they are pretty brilliant in here. You should definelty speak to a doctor. Good luck to all!