What’s a genetic counselor?

A genetic counselor is a health care professional with a master’s degree in human genetics and counseling. This training enables genetic counselors to discuss technical genetic information in practical, useful terms. Genzyme’s genetic counselors are board certified or active candidates for certification by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. They are supervised by Medical Geneticists, who are available for in-person consultation as needed.

What happens during a prenatal genetic counseling session?

Your genetic counselor can help you understand the genetic risks to your baby and your testing options. You decide which testing, if any, you’d like to have.

During a genetic counseling session, the genetic counselor:

• creates a family tree
• tells you the genetic risk(s) of your current pregnancy, based on the information you provide and the medical records your doctor provides
• discusses any genetic condition(s) identified in your family
• discusses standard prenatal test and procedure options based on the genetic risk(s) identified

View the Family History Questionnaire.

You may be referred for genetic counseling for various reasons, including if you:

• have had two or more pregnancy losses or unexplained infertility
• have a family history of an inherited disorder, birth defect or mental retardation
• have questions about a disease or condition that runs in the family
• have abnormal results from a screening test or diagnostic test
• are concerned about exposures to infection, medications, alcohol, drugs, chemicals or other environmental substances that could harm your pregnancy

How does a genetic counselor work with my doctor?

A genetic counselor works closely with your health care provider. After your initial session, the counselor may provide your doctor a report that summarizes the genetic risks to your baby and your testing options.

If you think you need a genetic counseling session, please talk with your doctor.