You should also test for sickle cell trait. Sickle cell trait does not make you sick, so you won't know you have it unless you test for it. If both you and your partner have sickle cell trait, there is a 25% chance that every time you get pregnant you could have a baby with full sickle cell anemia. There is a 50% chance that each baby will have the trait i.e. be a carrier and be able to pass it on to their kids. It won't make them sick.
With sickle cell anemia, the blood cells are abnormally shaped (like a sickle) and may get stuck in the blood vessels causing pain (sickle cell crisis) and organ damage. There is no cure for sickle cell anemia but there are ways and medications to help reduce some of the effects. Some people only realise for the first time that they have sickle cell trait when they have a baby with sickle cell anemia. Don't let it take you by surprise. Get tested.
See WebMD for more info.
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