Genetic Counseling & Testing
At Fetal Care Center Dallas, patients have the opportunity to meet with a specially trained, board-certified Genetic Counselor to determine if they are at an increased risk of a genetic disease.
A Genetic Counselor is a healthcare professional that provides patients with support and detailed information regarding prenatal screening/testing, birth defects, genetic disorders and the possible risk of inherited conditions.
Why Do People See A Genetic Counselor?
There are many different reasons to see a Genetic Counselor. Some common reasons include: a family history of a genetic condition or birth defect, advanced maternal age (≥35 years old at delivery), abnormal sonogram finding(s), abnormal prenatal screening or if you’re taking harmful medications.
What To Expect During Your Genetic Counseling Appointment
We will discuss:
– Why your OB referred you to our center
– Your current screening and testing options through our center
We will go over:
– Any concerns regarding your pregnancy
– You and your partner’s personal/family medical history
– Results from any screening(s)/testing done through your OB office
What Do I Need For My Genetic Counseling Appointment?
Knowing your family history is very helpful and important. If you have a family history of a genetic condition, gather any medical records you can about the condition and bring them with you to the appointment. Ask your family members about any major medical concerns or conditions they may have. For example: birth defects, learning disabilities, infertility/multiple miscarriages, or cancer. If you or your partner has had genetic testing in the past, please bring those results with you to the appointment.
What Are My Options?
During your appointment, your genetic counselor will review all of your screening and testing options in great detail. You will be able to ask any questions you like in order to make the best decision for you and your family.
Screenings
– Maternal Serum Screening: First Trimester Screening, Quad screening
and MSAFP
– Carrier Screening: Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell Anemia, Spinal Muscular
Atrophy and others
– Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening
Diagnostic Testing
– Chronic Villus Sampling (CVS)
– Amniocentesis
Follow Up
If you decide to have any screening or diagnostic testing during your appointment, the genetic counselor will be the one to contact you with those results. At that time, your genetic counselor will go over them with you and discuss any questions or concerns you may have. If a diagnosis is made, further genetic counseling may be recommended.
