Genetic Counseling 101
Following recurrent pregnancy losses, it is normal to have many questions and concerns. Speaking with a genetic counselor can help you and your partner understand your success rates of achieving a healthy pregnancy in the future and the possible risks. Your doctor may order chromosomal testing for your lost baby as well as a simple blood test for you and your partner to rule out genetic abnormalities such as Robertsonian Translocation.
What to Expect
Genetic counseling may be conducted by a trained nurse, medical provider, or a certified genetic counselor. They will go over any test results obtained on behalf of you, your partner, or your baby. From these results you will learn more about your options such as treatments or medical interventions to help increase your odds of achieving pregnancy. The counselor will also go over your and your partner’s health and family history. If applicable, the genetic counselor may also discuss personal disease risk, occupational exposures, and lifestyle choices that may impact fertility.
Questions to Ask
Genetic counseling is a very personal decision to be made between you, your partner, and your family. The information provided during a genetic counseling session is to help you feel informed and make the best decision for you and your family. Although your questions for a genetic counselor may be individualized based on your family and fertility history, here are some questions to start with:
How can knowing more about genetic testing help me?
Can I test negative for something and still pass it onto my baby?
What are the options for achieving healthy pregnancy?
What are the success rates for each intervention?
Do I/we have any genetic conditions that may affect all of our future children?
Is there anything to do to reduce risk of birth defects?
Are there any diagnosis that may affect our insurance plan?
How might life expectancy be affected by a genetic condition?
Are there any support groups or organizations that can help?
Where can I go for a second opinion?
If you are over age 35, have a family history of genetic abnormalities, or have had recurrent losses, it might be helpful to learn more about your genetic health.
For more information, consider these resources: