Question

My boyfriend’s mother and her sister both have some degree of mental retardation, and they can only communicate in simple ways. My boyfriend’s father had a brief mental health issue when he was young, but he has recovered and has not relapse. Both my boyfriend and his brother are normal and do not have intellectual disabilities. Is there a genetic risk that will affect our child?

Answer

Based on your description, mental retardation diseases do not inherit. However, it is recommended to inquire about your boyfriend’s grandparents’ history of intellectual disability, as this is very important for understanding the family medical history. If there are multiple cases of intellectual disability in the family, there may be a certain genetic predisposition. It is advisable to consult with a professional doctor for more detailed answers.