Genetic counseling gives you information about how genetic conditions might affect you or your family. The doctor will collect your personal and family health history. He can use this information to determine how likely it is that you or your family member has a genetic condition. Based on this information, the doctor can help you decide whether a genetic test might be right for you or your relative.

Genetic counselling involves talking about a genetic condition with a health professional who has qualifications in both genetics and counselling.

Genetic conditions are caused by changes or mistakes in genes. These conditions may be inherited (passed down) from one or both parents. Genetic counselling can help you understand more about an inherited condition and what causes it. There are different stages in your life when you might be referred for genetic counseling:

• Planning for Pregnancy
• During Pregnancy
• Congenital Anomaly