Genetic counseling gives information and support to people who have, or may be at risk of, genetic disorders. A genetic counselor meets with you to talk about genetic risks, whether for yourself or a family member, or when you are planning or expecting a baby. Counseling may be followed by genetic testing.
When to consider it
There are many reasons to seek genetic counseling. You might consider it if you:
- have a personal or family history of a genetic condition or birth defect;
- are pregnant or planning a pregnancy after age 35;
- already have a child with a genetic disorder or birth defect;
- have had two or more pregnancy losses, or a baby who died; or
- have had an ultrasound or screening test suggesting a possible problem.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Genetic Counseling": https://medlineplus.gov/geneticcounseling.html
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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