Genetic Counseling

What Genetic Counseling Is About
Genetic counseling is a healthcare service that provides information and guidance about genetic conditions, inherited disorders, and risks related to family history. It helps individuals, couples, or families understand how genetic conditions might affect them or their future children. This counseling supports informed decision-making about family planning, testing options, and treatment possibilities. It is especially important for those undergoing fertility treatments, prenatal care, or who have a known risk of genetic disease.

Who Needs Genetic Counseling Services
Genetic counseling is recommended for couples with a family history of genetic disorders, repeated miscarriages, infertility, or abnormal prenatal test results. It is also useful when planning pregnancy at an older maternal age, after failed IVF cycles, or when using donor sperm/eggs. Individuals with personal or family histories of conditions like cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, or chromosomal abnormalities benefit from understanding inheritance patterns and future risks. Counseling is also essential before undergoing procedures like PGS or PGD in IVF.

What Happens During a Session
During a genetic counseling session, a trained genetic counselor reviews your medical history, family background, and discusses potential risks. They may recommend genetic tests and explain the implications of test results in a clear and supportive way. The goal is to empower patients with knowledge, reduce anxiety, and guide them through complex decisions about their reproductive health. Counseling is non-directive, confidential, and tailored to each individual’s needs, providing clarity and reassurance during what can be a sensitive time.