Genetic Counselling: 6 Frequently Asked Questions

Published On - December 29, 2021

If you are facing a genetic issue, your doctor may refer you to a genetic counsellor. Genetic counselling helps people come to terms with the information they have learned about their condition and future risk. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about genetic counselling.

What is genetic counselling?

Genetic counselling is a process that helps people understand the risks of inheriting certain genetic disorders. It’s a way to learn about a person’s specific risk of passing on or being affected by genetic disorders. With genetic counselling, an individual can learn more about their family history and genetic make-up. People who have questions about their health or their family history can contact a genetic counsellor for information about how genetics play a role in health and wellness.

What does a genetic counsellor do?

Genetic counsellors are trained healthcare professionals who help you understand your risk for inheriting or passing along an inherited (genetic) disorder, learn about available tests, and make informed decisions about testing and treatments. They also help you understand what it means to know your genetic information, as well as how to cope with the emotional impact of receiving abnormal test results.

What kind of diagnosis a genetic counsellor can do?

Genetic counsellors check on your risks for having a genetic condition based on your family history and blood tests that shows the health of your chromosomes. They also discuss the pros and cons of genetic testing and what results might mean for you, including possible lifestyle changes or preventive measures. Genetic counsellors are specially trained to work with people who need or want to learn about their genetic risks. They’re often called upon to help families affected by genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome or Marfan syndrome. Your genetic counsellor can also help you decide whether to have a baby with a serious birth defect or carrier status for an inherited disorder. The counsellor may refer you to an obstetrician-gynaecologist (OB-GYN) or other specialists for this, if necessary.

Why is genetic counselling important before and during pregnancy?

When you’re pregnant, doctors can test your baby’s DNA to see if he or she has any genetic disorders. Genetic testing can provide important information about your baby’s health and development. The tests are also used to determine if your pregnancy is at increased risk of some birth defects and other problems. A genetic counsellor is an expert who can help you understand genetic testing results and the implications for your family. They can help you determine your risk factors for having a child with certain diseases or conditions. If you are at high risk, they can help you make informed decisions about whether to continue your pregnancy. So, in some cases, seeking genetic counselling before and during pregnancy is just as important as any other routine tests like 3D and 4D pregnancy ultrasonography in Kolkata.

What to expect at a genetic counselling appointment?

At your first genetic counselling appointment, you will meet with a genetic counsellor and talk about your concerns about genetic health problems in your family, your medical history, and how you plan to have children. The counsellor will explain what a genetic counsellor does, what will happen during your appointments, how the counselling works, and how much it costs. It’s a good idea to ask questions about anything you don’t understand or want more information about. During a typical appointment, you can expect your counsellor to ask about your family’s medical history and look at your medical records. The counsellor may also ask about any prenatal tests you’ve had and how you learned the results of those tests. They may even order more genetic tests.

What is the fee of a genetic counsellor?

The fee varies from one genetic counsellor to another. So, it’s best to do some research. You can find the best genetic counsellor in Kolkata that offers complete support and isn’t very expensive.