What is Genetic Counselling ?
Genetic counselling is a specialized medical service that helps individuals and families understand the risk of inherited conditions. It involves evaluating personal and family medical history, assessing genetic risks, and providing guidance on testing, prevention, and management options.
Genetic counselling supports informed decision-making, especially for couples planning a pregnancy, individuals with a family history of genetic disorders, or those with previous pregnancy complications.
Who Should Consider Genetic Counselling?
• Couples planning pregnancy
• Individuals with a family history of genetic disorders
• Recurrent miscarriages
• Previous child with a genetic or congenital condition
• Advanced maternal age (35 years and above)
• Abnormal prenatal screening results
• Consanguineous (related) marriages
What Happens During Genetic Counselling?
Detailed Medical and Family History Review
A thorough evaluation of personal and family health history to identify potential inherited risks.
Risk Assessment
Estimation of the likelihood of passing on genetic conditions.
Genetic Testing Guidance
Discussion about available screening or diagnostic tests, including their benefits, limitations, and possible outcomes.
Emotional Support
Providing psychological support and helping families cope with complex medical information.
Confidential and Ethical Discussion
Ensuring privacy and respecting individual values while discussing sensitive genetic information.
Types of Genetic Testing
Carrier Screening
Identifies whether an individual carries a gene mutation that could be passed to a child.
Prenatal Screening and Diagnosis
Tests performed during pregnancy to detect certain genetic or chromosomal conditions.
Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
Used during IVF to screen embryos for specific genetic disorders before implantation.
Predictive and Diagnostic Testing
Helps determine the risk of developing inherited conditions later in life.
Benefits of Genetic Counselling
• Early identification of potential genetic risks
• Better pregnancy planning and preparation
• Informed medical and reproductive decisions
• Reduced anxiety through accurate information
• Personalized healthcare recommendations
When to Seek Genetic Counselling
Consider genetic counselling if there is a known family history of inherited disorders, unexplained developmental delays, recurrent pregnancy loss, or abnormal screening reports. Early consultation can provide clarity, reassurance, and appropriate medical guidance.
Genetic counselling empowers individuals and families with knowledge, enabling them to make confident and well-informed healthcare decisions for themselves and future generations.
Frequently asked questions
If you are below 35 and trying for 1 year without success, or above 35 and trying for 6 months, evaluation is recommended.
It's essential to feel comfortable and understood by your therapist. If you don't feel a connection, it's okay to discuss your concerns.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) is a procedure where prepared sperm is placed directly inside the uterus to increase chances of fertilization. It is recommended in selected fertility cases.
Hormonal issues, genetic factors, uterine abnormalities, clotting disorders, or immune conditions may contribute. A detailed workup helps guide treatment.
Genetic counselling is advised in cases of recurrent miscarriage, family history of genetic disorders, or advanced maternal age.