The vast majority of children of first cousins are healthy and do not have problems due to their parents relatedness. It is important to keep in mind that even for an unrelated couple, there is an approximately 2-3% chance that their child is born with a birth defect, genetic syndrome, or disability.

What happens when first cousins have babies?

First cousins are somewhat more likely than unrelated parents to have a child with a serious birth defect, mental retardation or genetic disease, but their increased risk is nowhere near as large as most people think, the scientists said.

What are the risk of having a baby with your cousin?

It is important to keep in mind that even for an unrelated couple, there is an approximately 2-3% chance that their child is born with a birth defect, genetic syndrome, or disability. The risk for children of first cousins is increased over this background, by about 3%.

What does the Bible say about relationships with cousins?

Also, cousins are not included in the lists of prohibited relationships. However, the Bible prohibits relationships with any close blood relative (Leviticus 18:6).