Genetic Counselling

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Published on Friday, 30 September 2011 22:27

Written by Ginny

Genetic Counselling

Genetic disorders are a problem in our development or health, which comes from an irregularity in one or more of our genes.

Many of these disorders run in families. Disorders like heart disease, asthma and some cancers. Other disorders are more closely linked to the inherited genes. Disorders such as: Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, haemophilia and thalassaemia.

Some reasons you may need genetic counselling 

• If you are worried about passing on a condition to your children.
• Becoming a parent when you are in your mid 30’s or older
• Having a partner who is a close relative
• An abnormality has been detected in your baby
• Effects of drugs, infections or other substances you have been exposed to during pregnancy
• If you have had multiple miscarriages, a stillbirth or a neonatal death

What happens in the counselling? 

• They will take your family history
• Discuss and or arrange appropriate tests
• Let you know the chance that you, other members of your family or your children will be affected by a particular condition
• Provide you with information and counselling if your baby is found to have an abnormality
• Advise you of community groups and resources if needed.