Understanding Prenatal Genetic Counseling

by Madalyn Charnego, MPH, MS, CGC, Licensed and Certified Genetic Counselor, UPMC in Central Pa.

November 14 is Genetic Counseling Awareness Day. This is an important day to raise awareness about the role of genetic counselors in helping people understand genetic conditions. With the rise of direct-to-consumer genetic testing services, more people are becoming interested in their genetic information. However, many people may only think of genetic testing as a way to learn more about their ancestry. Genetic counseling and clinical genetic testing offer more than that. They are valuable resources for people who may be wondering how genetic information may impact their health and family planning decisions.

The health of a pregnancy can be affected by many different factors, including genetics. There are many options for genetic testing and screening. A genetic counselor can help you determine what options, if any, might be best for you.

At UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa., prenatal genetic counselors work one-on-one with patients to evaluate family histories and identify potential risks for genetic conditions through personalized assessments. Genetic counselors provide balanced information about your risks and options, working with you to guide your care. A conversation with a genetic counselor can empower families to make informed decisions regarding reproductive options, such as prenatal testing or assisted reproductive technologies, or even decisions regarding the course of pregnancy.

You may want to consider prenatal genetic counseling if you:

• Want to understand how genetics can affect your pregnancy
• You are 35 years or older and pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
• Have a family member with a genetic condition or birth differences

• Have experienced multiple pregnancy losses

• Have been told something unexpected was found on an ultrasound during your pregnancy

• Have a family background that makes you high risk for certain genetic conditions

Before you meet with a genetic counselor, ask your family and your partner's family about health conditions that may be affecting your family members. Family health history is just one way to determine if genetic testing is right for you and your pregnancy.

When a screening test indicates high risk, genetic counselors can discuss further testing options for your pregnancy. Genetic testing can be complex, and a genetic counselor can help you work through its pros and cons and limitations. Thinking ahead about what you will do with the information can be helpful. Knowing ahead of time about a disorder can help you prepare for medical care you may need during your pregnancy or for your child after birth.

By addressing a person's concerns early on, genetic counseling enhances the care team for pregnancies and fosters a supportive environment where families can discuss their values and preferences regarding health and genetics. Ultimately, it serves as a vital resource for navigating the complexities of family planning and pregnancy with confidence and clarity.

To learn more about prenatal genetic counseling at UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa., visit UPMC.com/CentralPaWomen

Photo Caption: Standing from left are UPMC Genetic Counselors in Central Pa., Rebecca Oberschmidt, MS, CGC, Madalyn Charnego, MS, MPH, CGC, Seth Lascurain, MS, MPH, CGC

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