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By: Matt Tschirgi, MS, CGC Certified Genetic Counselor
Prenatal genetic counseling is a crucial service provided to future or expecting parents to assess risks of genetic disorders in a pregnancy. A genetic counseling consult offers in-depth information and support for parents navigating the complexities of possible genetic risks in the next generation. It typically consists of discussing inherited risks, performing a medical family history, asking questions about possible environmental exposures that could impact a pregnancy, and providing a comprehensive risk assessment. Testing options may be offered, but are completely optional. For couples who are not sure what tests may be right for them, genetic counselors offer anticipatory guidance based on the values and priorities of the patient and family. Genetic counselors are specifically trained to break down complex genetic information so it may be understood by patients who come from various educational and cultural backgrounds. They act as a guide for the patient, but it is the patient who determines the pace and depth of information. Additionally, genetic counselors provide the psychosocial and emotional support needed for couples as they navigate new spaces that may be brewing with emotion at times.
Why is genetic counseling so crucial in the prenatal healthcare journey? There are many benefits to seeing a genetic counselor when planning a family:
● Early Detection: Early testing means early risk assessment and early detection. For example, if a couple knows they are carriers for the same recessive condition like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell disease, they can make informed decisions about family planning. Some couples may proceed with conception, while others may investigate invitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic testing, still some may choose to adopt, and some may remain child-free. There is no one solution for every family.
● Healthcare Navigation: For those who know a child may be born with a genetic condition, they can make the arrangements in obtaining assistance in understanding and choosing the best medical care plan for their baby.
● Patient Autonomy: While genetic counselors may provide guidance, it is the patient who is in control of their healthcare journey. Genetic counselors do not impose their ideas on a family. A patient may even change course based on new information through the process of testing or other examinations. Genetic counselors explore choices, clarify goals, and provide options.
Although prenatal genetic counseling has been around for decades, there are still some challenges that may be encountered. Some situations may be emotionally charged, especially if there is a diagnosis of a severe condition where there is no treatment. Furthermore, navigating the unknown can be difficult. Even with the recent advances in current medical genetic technology, there are times when definitive answers are elusive, and genetic testing results interpretation can be challenging. Fortunately, prenatal genetic counselors are experts at navigating patients through difficult and ambiguous information.
Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) has an accredited genetic counseling program, which will accept students for the fall 2025 term. It is a combination of online coursework, field work practicum, and culminates with a capstone project. The vision of the program is to prepare graduates to be leaders among healthcare professionals, including genetic counselors. SCU offers courses in prenatal genetic counseling, among other genetic counseling specialties. Additionally, SCU’s desire is for prenatal genetic counselors to care for the entire family with evidence-based medicine integrated and holistic healthcare that accounts for not only the pregnancy journey, but also preventative care, stress reduction, and overall well-being. For those who are curious about genetic counseling as a rewarding and exciting career, further information can be found at SCU’s website.