What You Need to Know About Preconception Genetic Counselling?

Preconception genetic counseling is recommended for individuals and couples who are planning to have a child and want to learn more about the potential genetic risks associated with their family history or ethnicity. Here are some specific situations in which preconception genetic counseling may be especially beneficial:

Family history of genetic disorders: If you or your partner has a family history of a genetic disorder such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or Tay-Sachs disease, preconception genetic counseling can help you understand the risk of passing on the disorder to your child.

Personal history of a genetic disorder: If you or your partner has a personal history of a genetic disorder, preconception genetic counseling can help you understand the risk of passing the disorder on to your child, as well as options for prenatal testing or assisted reproductive technologies.

Consanguinity: If you and your partner are related, such as being first cousins, there is a higher risk of passing on genetic disorders. Preconception genetic counseling can help you understand the risks and options available to reduce the risk.

Previous pregnancy complications: If you or your partner have had previous pregnancy complications, such as multiple miscarriages or stillbirths, preconception genetic counseling can help you understand the potential genetic factors that may have contributed.

Advanced maternal age: Women over the age of 35 have a higher risk of having a child with a chromosomal abnormality, such as Down syndrome. Preconception genetic counseling can help couples understand the risks and options available for prenatal testing or assisted reproductive technologies.

Overall, preconception genetic counseling is beneficial for anyone who wants to have a better understanding of their potential genetic risks and options available to have a healthy pregnancy and child.