Genetic counseling is done to provide information and support to individuals and families who may be at risk of having a child with genetic disorders. A genetic counselor  works with these individuals  and guides them through information  about their chances of having a child with birth disorders and genetic defects. Genetic counseling may be done when planning to get pregnant or during pregnancy.
 

 
It may be followed by genetic testing. The health care professional will help families understand birth defects and how inheritance work. They give parents and families the needed information to help them make decisions about pregnancy,  caring for a child and genetic  testing.

Who needs genetic counseling ?

If you have unanswered questions about diseases or traits in your family, then you need genetic counseling. Genetic counseling may be valuable to the following people :

• women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant after 35 years
• if you have an inherited disorder or birth defect such as sickle cell anemia or cystic fibrosis
• if your child was diagnosed with a genetic disorder during a routing newborn screening
• if you have a child with intellectual disability,  an inherited disorder or birth defect
• if you had a baby who died at infancy or have had 3 or more miscarriages
• couple who are close blood relatives or first cousins
• pregnant women whose ultrasound and prenatal test reveals that they may be at increased risk of certain complications and birth defects
• people whose jobs, lifestyle and medical history puts them at increased risk of genetic disorders. These include people who take street drugs, certain medications, are exposed to radiation, chemicals and infections

What should you expect at a genetic counseling appointment ?

During your appointment , the genetic counselor

• will record your family  and medical history such as if your parents or sibling have heart disease, diabetes and so on
• figure out and explain your chances of having a child with genetic defects
• may schedule you for blood test,  physical examinations or amniocentesis
• help you interpret screening and testing results
• explain any problems detected with your pregnancy and help you understand your options
• provide emotional support
• refer you to a support or advocacy group

 
You can seek genetic counseling directly or be referred by a physician.
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