Is it okay to date your third cousin? Since third cousins share only a very small percentage of their DNA, there is no issue with third cousins dating from a genetic perspective. According to an article by The Spruce, marriage between second cousins and more distant cousins is legal throughout the United States.

Are third cousins too close to marry?

In short, yes, it is legal for second and third cousins to marry in the US. The risk of birth defects in children born to first cousins is increased from a baseline of 3-4 percent to 4-7 percent, according to the National Society of Genetic Counselors.

Does marrying a cousin cause birth defects?

Although the absolute risk is still considered very small, meaning that in general the majority of babies are unaffected, first cousin marriages greatly increase birth defects and the chance of a baby dying early.

Can I marry my 4th cousin?

Its legal in all 50 states to marry a cousin whos your second cousin or further. Third and fourth cousin marriages are the, quote, “best of both worlds.” Theyre breakfast food for dinner. You avoid the inbreeding risks of closer cousins, but your genes are just close enough that they naturally work well together.

Can 1st cousins have babies?

Contrary to widely held beliefs and longstanding taboos in America, first cousins can have children together without a great risk of birth defects or genetic disease, scientists are reporting today. They say there is no biological reason to discourage cousins from marrying.