Genetic consultation is an appointment or meeting with a genetic counsellor.
It can begin by asking the individual questions about:
- Their personal medical history
- Family history of genetic disorders, especially of cancer illness; and the number of miscarriages, stillbirths in case of pregnancy
Counsellor will also do the following:
- They can ask and look at the results of cancer screening tests and begin to draw your family tree that would include at least 3 generations
- Counsellor may recommend genetic tests or other screening tests
- They will look at ultrasounds or prenatal tests in case of pregnancy genetic counselling
- They will educate the individual/patient about their possible outcomes
- They will talk about what can be done and the treatment options
- They will provide support and resources
Knowledge Plus
Benefits of Genetic Counselling include the following:
- Increased understanding with genetic screening tests that identify the genetic condition
- Early intervention
- Timely suggestion of screening tests
- Decision-making in treatment
