It largely depends on how prevalent it is socially.
In societies where first cousin reproduction isn’t common, the increased risk of birth defects is about the same as a pregnancy where the mother is in her 40s.
In societies where it is common, the rates can go up sharply though when it compounds across generations.
Right? It’s only like 1.7 to 2.8% more of a chance of a birth defect. That’s nothing. That’s gambling odds easy. Every day.
It largely depends on how prevalent it is socially.
In societies where first cousin reproduction isn’t common, the increased risk of birth defects is about the same as a pregnancy where the mother is in her 40s.
In societies where it is common, the rates can go up sharply though when it compounds across generations.