Paula’s journey on the Generation Study and her message to others
Published on 12/12/2025
Paula Kaya, from Erdington, is one of over 1,500 mothers to have taken part in the Generation Study at University Hospitals Birmingham, which tests newborns for more than 200 rare genetic conditions.
After being approached during her two-day stay at Good Hope Hospital Maternity Unit earlier this year, Paula has shared her experience of how reassuring and valuable the process was for her and her family.
“Our story with the Generation Study started on Monday 31 March this year, while I was hospitalised with an early labour scare at 35 weeks pregnant. I was approached by a lovely nurse, who was professional and friendly, and asked if I would be interested in taking part in the study. She left me a booklet to have a look at and gave me time to contact my husband to see if he would be happy for our son, Ayaz, to take part.
“I had a read-through and was truly amazed that this kind of study was available at no cost. I'm someone who's fascinated by any health research, but when it’s about my kid’s health, I'm beyond interested. The idea of giving a tiny blood sample from the umbilical cord (where the baby doesn’t have to be pricked with a needle) and receiving results that could reassure you for life, is just amazing.
“I felt it was a great opportunity not only for now but also for the future when our children decide to have their own families. It could give them extra confidence that they don’t carry any genetic illnesses they could pass on.
“I found the process very easy, and both nurses I saw were professional and kind. They absolutely respected our decision, never tried to pressure us, and didn’t make us feel rushed. The second nurse even took time out of her day to come to me and gather the details, which I was very grateful for given how busy the setting was. We received the results before Ayaz was even a month old.
“I’m very glad I took part in the Generation Study because I’m convinced it’s a great step forward in baby care. In time, it could become a routine that helps thousands of babies and their parents diagnose conditions early, giving children a better chance of managing illness.
“I can understand why expectant parents might feel uneasy about new studies, but I believe the patience of nurses in explaining everything, combined with experiences like mine, will make it easier for others to take part in the future. I would do it again without hesitation.”
To find out more about the Generation Study and how you can get involved, visit their website or speak to your hospital care team: https://www.generationstudy.co.uk/
