Genetics Services
Genetic counseling helps patients understand the medical, psychological and familial impact of genetic disease. We interpret family and medical histories to assess the chance of disease occurring or recurring. We educate about genetic resources and research, which helps to promote informed choices.
Genetic Counseling
A Genetic Counselor (GC) is a health care professional with a master’s degree in human genetics and counseling. Georgia Perinatal Consultants’ GC’s are employees of Northside Hospital and are board certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling.
Genetic Counseling is a service that helps you understand information about your pregnancy and prenatal care testing options. During your visit, the GC will review your relevant medical history and any genetic testing you and your relative have had. The GC will evaluate this information to determine if you are at risk for having a child affected with a birth defect or genetic condition. You will leave this appointment informed and ready to make the best decisions for you and your family.
Cell Free DNA testing
Cell-free fetal DNA is blood test sampled by venipuncture on the mother. The blood is sampled for pregnancy derived DNA circulating freely in the maternal blood stream. Analysis of the blood sample has been proven to be a highly sensitive exam for fetal aneuploidy. Georgia Perinatal Consultants was the first in Atlanta to to pioneer cell-free DNA testing.
Who Should Consider Prenatal Genetic Counseling?
- A woman who will be 35 years old or older when her baby is born.
- Anyone with abnormal results from a genetic screening or diagnostic test.
- Anyone with a family history of an inherited disorder, birth defect or mental retardation.
- Anyone considering invasive testing (amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling)
- Anyone who has questions about a disease or a condition that runs in the family.
- Anyone concerned that his or her job, lifestyle or medical history may pose a risk to pregnancy (including exposure to infection, medicines, alcohol, street drugs, chemicals, or other environmental agents).
- Couples who are first cousins or other close blood relatives.
- A woman who has had two or more unexplained miscarriages or early infant deaths.
- Couples with infertility thought to have a genetic cause.
- Men with congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD).
To make an appointment for Prenatal Genetic Counseling call: 404-851-8980
