Genetic Counseling

Genetic counselors are masters-level health care providers with specialized training and education in medical genetics and counseling.

In general, genetic counselors:

• Explain testing options, along with potential risks
• Address the complex emotional implications of genetic conditions, testing options and screening
• Coordinate appropriate genetic testing and screening
• Help patients adapt to this information and provide emotional support and understanding

During a prenatal genetics consultation, a genetic counselor will:

• Take a pregnancy history and detailed, directed family history
• Discuss the chances of having a baby with a birth defect based on ethnic background, mother's age, mother's pregnancy history, the results of any blood tests or ultrasounds, family histories, and any medication or infection exposures
• Discuss all the options for learning about the baby's health before birth, including whether or not a family would choose to have tests such as ultrasound, blood tests, specialized genetic tests, CVS or amniocentesis when indicated
• Try to be sure the patient understands the benefits and disadvantages of the different prenatal tests and what kind of information is learned about the baby's health from each test
• Help the patient make decisions about prenatal testing that are informed and appropriate for her and her family

A genetic counselor will also, when needed:

• Notify patients of the results of any prenatal tests done
• Help the patient understand how the pregnancy and the baby's health will be affected by any birth defect or genetic condition that is diagnosed
• Research the availability of and coordinate any other genetic testing that is appropriate for the patient and her family
• Coordinate appointments with other doctors such as pediatric heart or neurology specialists.
• Provide additional resources appropriate for the patient and her family