Genetic Counseling Specialist

What is Genetic Counseling?

Genetic counseling is a specialized service that provides information about the role your genes play in your health and the health of your unborn baby. Woodglen Medical Group offers genetic counseling before or during your pregnancy.

What are Genes?

Your genes, which are made up of DNA, serve as a set of instructions that tell the cells and proteins in your body what to do. You have two sets of genes, one inherited from your mother, the other from your father.

Most of the genes in your two sets are the same, but a very small amount, less than 1%, are different and help create your individual characteristics, such as the color of your eyes or whether you’re right- or left-handed.

These different genes may also contain genetic material for various health conditions, such as sickle cell disease or cystic fibrosis.

Do I Need Genetic Counseling?

You may want to seek genetic counseling for a number of reasons. Your doctor at Woodglen Medical Group will discuss the benefits of counseling with you based on your and your partner’s health histories to help you decide whether it’s a good choice for your pregnancy.

You may benefit from counseling if you are over 35, have had an ultrasound that suggests a possible birth defect, or have:

• A family history of an inherited genetic health condition or birth defect
• A genetic health condition or birth defect
• A history of multiple miscarriages

You may also find genetic counseling helpful if you have concerns about the effects of your exposure to environmental factors, such as chemicals or radiation, during your pregnancy.

What Can I Expect During Genetic Counseling?

Genetic counseling at Woodglen Medical Group is comprehensive and includes an in-depth look at your family health history. The counselor may also recommend special testing to assess your risk of passing on certain genetic traits or conditions.

After you’ve completed your testing, your counselor takes time going over your results and what they may mean for your pregnancy.

To learn more about genetic counseling and how it can benefit your pregnancy, call Woodglen Medical Group or schedule an appointment online.