Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling helps people determine whether there are any inherited conditions or heritable factors that could be of significance to you, your partner, or your potential children. Meeting with a genetic counselor prior to conception can help you understand your genetic risks and the options available to help maximize your chance of having a healthy baby. Genetic counseling also helps couples and individuals make informed decisions about whether to undergo genetic testing and how to choose among the different options for the management or prevention of genetic disorders. Genetic counseling is typically provided by a board-certified genetic counselor with a masters of science degree in human genetics.

Some common reasons that individuals meet with genetic counselors include:

• a personal or family history of infertility
• multiple miscarriages
• stillbirth or infant death
• a family history of a birth defects
• a family history of developmental delay and mental retardation
• a family history of an inherited condition
• a relative who is a carrier of an inherited condition
• abnormal genetic test results
• planning a pregnancy and are 35 years of age or older
• are considering preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)
• would like more information about the availability of genetic testing or screening
• are concerned about the effects of medications and exposures during pregnancy
• have questions or concerns about the risk of birth defects or inherited conditions in your future children.

If you would like more information or would like to schedule an appointment with a genetic counselor, please ask your clinical team for a referral to a genetic counselor.
 

Reference

Baker, Diane L., Schuette, Jane L., Uhlmann, Wendy R. A Guide to Genetic Counseling. New York: Wiley-Liss, 1998.