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Pregnancy & Genetic Counseling |
Pregnancy & Genetic Counseling.
My sister had a baby last year that was born with Down syndrome. I'm considering pregnancy. Should I have genetic counseling?
This is something to discuss with your doctor. The answer is based in many factors, including your age, your past health, your partner's health and your family medical history.
What can genetic counseling tell me?
A counselor can discuss possibilities or probabilities regarding a planned pregnancy and your baby. In a situation like the one you describe with your sister, ask your doctor's advice.
Should everyone consider genetic counseling?
It isn't necessary for most women. If you have a family history of problems, you may want to seek counseling. Other situations in which you might consider genetic counseling include those listed below: - You will be 3 5 or older when you deliver.
- Either you or your partner has a birth defect.
- You have had a baby with a birth defect.
- You have had three or more miscarriages in a row.
- You and your partner are related.
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