What is Prenatal Genetic Counseling?
A prenatal genetic counselor is a health care professional with specialized training in medical genetics and counseling. They guide and support patients who want information about how inherited conditions might affect their pregnancy or future child.
Genetic counselors can help you determine if testing is right for you. They also interpret genetic test results based on your family and personal history. Genetic counselors also provide emotional support during your decision-making and empower you with more health information.
What Is the Purpose of Genetic Counseling for Pregnancy-Related Concerns?
Genetic testing offers several main benefits:
- Assess the risk of genetic conditions in a future pregnancy
- Evaluate the risk of genetic conditions in a fetus
- Diagnose genetic conditions in a fetus
The most common prenatal genetic tests evaluate for chromosome differences in the fetus. A chromosome difference is when someone has an extra or missing chromosome (thread-like strands that contain DNA and protein and carry genetic information between your cells). Some examples of chromosome differences are trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18, and trisomy 13.
You may choose prenatal genetic testing based on several factors:
- Ultrasounds show possible signs of a genetic condition in the fetus.
- You have a personal history of pregnancy loss.
- You have a personal or family history of a genetic condition.
- You have a prenatal genetic test result that indicates the fetus is at high risk for a genetic condition.
- You want a genetic evaluation to help aid in reproductive decision-making.
- You want to get preconception counseling and testing before becoming pregnant.
What to Expect at a Prenatal Genetic Counseling Appointment
Your first visit with the genetic counselor is a time to discuss your genetic testing options. Your genetic counselor will explain each test’s benefits and risks. They will also determine if you have any risk factors. For example, you may have a family history of genetic conditions. This helps them determine what tests may be right for you.
You and the genetic counselor will discuss your questions, goals, and preferences. The genetic counselor will explain what to expect with testing if you decide to pursue it. The genetic counseling team may also help you understand your insurance coverage and costs.
Find a Prenatal Genetic Counselor
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Janice L. B. Byrne, MD
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A Journey of Resilience and Hope: From Motherhood to Patient Coordinator
Rachel Harbert wanted to start a family, but her path to pregnancy tested her resilience. After five years of fertility treatments, she conceived twins, a boy and a girl. Her son Preston was born prematurely at 27 weeks.
