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Information for patients and families
Patient Handout

Genetic Counseling

What is it? Do I need it?

Genetic counseling gives you facts and support.

A genetic counselor helps you understand your family history, test results, and choices.

What is genetic counseling?

A genetic counselor is a health expert who explains how genes may affect a baby or family.

Genes are the body's instructions. They help the body grow and develop.

What does the counselor do?
  • Looks at your health and family history.
  • Explains blood tests, such as NIPT and the AFP test, that check the baby's chance of certain health problems.
  • Tells you what a test can and cannot show.
  • Helps explain a test result or ultrasound finding.
  • Supports your choices.
Who may need genetic counseling?

Genetic counseling may be very helpful if:

  • A pregnancy screening test is high risk, positive, or not clear.
  • A blood screen did not give a result.
  • An ultrasound shows a possible problem with the baby.
  • You, your partner, or a close family member has a gene problem or birth defect.
  • A carrier test finds a gene change in you or your partner.
  • You and your partner carry a gene change for the same health problem.
  • You had a past pregnancy or child with a gene problem or birth defect.
  • You have had several pregnancy losses or a stillbirth.
  • You and your partner are related by blood.
  • You will be age 35 or older when the baby is born and want help with test choices.
  • You are worried about a drug, illness, or exposure during pregnancy.
Do I have to get a test?

No. The counselor will not tell you what to do. You may choose a test, or you may say no.

Screening tests These tests tell if the baby may have a higher chance of a health problem. They do not give a sure answer.
Tests that can give a clearer answer CVS tests a small sample from the placenta. Amniocentesis tests a small amount of fluid from around the baby. These tests can often tell if the baby has the health problem being checked for.
When can I have a visit?

You can meet with a genetic counselor:

  • Before pregnancy.
  • During pregnancy.
  • After a test or ultrasound result.
  • After the baby is born.
Many visits can be done by video.
How should I get ready?
  • Bring any test results, ultrasound reports, medical records, or other papers you want to talk about.
  • Learn about health problems in your family.
  • Write down your questions.
  • Ask a partner or support person to join you.
Medical references
  1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Prenatal genetic screening, diagnostic testing, and carrier screening guidance.
  2. Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM). Prenatal genetic screening recommendations.
  3. National Society of Genetic Counselors (NSGC). About Genetic Counselors.