Texas Tech Physicians : Lubbock: Obstetrics & Gynecology: Genetic Counseling

Services:

Location:

Name:

The Center for Perinatal Medicine

Genetic Counseling

What to Expect

During a typical Genetic Counseling session, your referral indication will be discussed in detail. If your referral is due to a laboratory test performed in your doctor's office, these results will be discussed in detail. If your referral indication is due to a personal or family history of birth defects, mental retardation, multiple miscarriages, or inherited condition, medical records will be reviewed, special laboratory tests may be ordered, and referrals to other medical specialists may be suggested. Also, a complete family history will be obtained during your visit to ensure there is nothing else in your family history that may be of concern.

Common reasons for Genetic Counseling

Advanced Maternal Age (AMA)

AMA is defined as maternal age of 35 years or older at the time of delivery. The chance of having a baby with Down syndrome or other chromosome abnormality increases each year as women age.

Our goal is to provide you with clear, op to date information and support so that you are able to make the best decision for yourself and your family. The primary goal of Genetic Counseling is to enable each patient to become an advocate for themselves, their family, and their healthcare.

Abnormal triple or quad screen results

Patients who have a positive result on this blood test are referred for more information about their results and will be given further testing including amniocentesis.

Family history of birth defects, mental retardation, or inherited condition

Patients who have had a previous pregnancy or a family history of these conditions are often concerned about their risks for these problems in their current or future pregnancies. These concerns will be addresses at your appointment. Testing and/or screening may be available to aid in determining whether the problem can occur in the current or future pregnancies.

Multiple miscarriages

Pregnancy loss can cause anxiety during pregnancy. There may be genetic factors that cause an increased risk of miscarriages or infertility. If you� have have had three or more unexplained miscarriages, specialized genetic testing may be indicated.

Exposure to potentially harmful substances

Exposure to certain medications, drugs, alcohol, or other environmental agents can result in an increased risk for birth defects, mental retardation, or pregnancy complications. Assessment of the risk involved due to exposure to potentially harmful substances is a common cause of a referral for Genetic Counseling. You will receive up-to-date information on the known affects of the substance to which you have been exposed.

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3502 9th, Suite G70 I Lubbock, TX 79415 I 806.761.0770