The importance of genetic counseling
Genetic counseling is an important part of fertility testing and treatment. It can help patients understand their genetic risks based on their family history and genetic testing and help make informed decisions about their treatment options. It may also prepare for the possibility of having a child with a genetic condition and consider all their available options for avoiding the birth of an affected child.
Why get genetic counseling during fertility treatment?
There are a number of reasons why genetic counseling is important for patients who are undergoing fertility testing and treatment.
Genetic causes of infertility
First, some genetic conditions can cause infertility. For example, Turner syndrome, a condition in which females have only one X chromosome, can cause infertility. Genetic counseling can help patients understand their risk of having a genetic condition that could cause infertility.
Understanding genetic risks to children
In addition, some genetic conditions can be passed on to children. For example, cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that can cause respiratory problems. If both parents are carriers of the cystic fibrosis gene, there is a 25% chance that their child will have the disorder. Genetic counseling can help patients understand their risk of passing on a genetic condition to their children.
Inform treatment
Genetic counseling can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment options. For example, if a patient is found to be a carrier of a genetic condition, they may want to consider preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). PGT is a procedure that can be used to select embryos that do not have the genetic condition. Genetic counseling can help patients understand the risks and benefits of PGT and make an informed decision about whether to pursue the procedure.
Preparation and education
Finally, genetic counseling can help patients prepare for the possibility of having a child with a genetic condition. If a patient is found to be at risk of having a child with a genetic condition, they may want to learn more about the condition and how it could affect their child. Genetic counseling can provide patients with information about the condition, as well as support and resources to help them cope with the possibility of having a child with a genetic condition.
Partnering with genetic counselors
At Conceive NJ, we partner with some of the top genetic counselors to provide you with a thorough evaluation of your specific genetic circumstance as well as outlining all available options. This allows you to select the best option that is right for you and your partner.
Contact us today to learn more.