Genetic and reproductive counseling is a medical service that helps individuals and couples understand and manage genetic and hereditary risks related to reproduction. This process involves assessing the risk of having offspring with genetic diseases, establishing a prognosis, and offering reproductive options to minimize these risks.
Before starting assisted reproduction treatment, many couples choose to undergo a genetic study that allows them to understand the potential genetic risks for their future child, thus making the best decisions.
Understanding potential genetic risks can help patients make informed reproductive decisions and approach treatment with greater confidence and fewer uncertainties.
This consultation is carried out by genetic specialists who provide patients with information on possible genetic conditions, inheritance of diseases, and the risks and implications for the future baby and the family.
Once potential genetic alterations are identified, the team of specialists will assess and explain the implications of the detected genetic conditions, and then present alternatives to minimise the risk of genetic transmission, such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) with preimplantation genetic diagnosis.
This process is essential for those with a family history of genetic diseases or who have received a genetic diagnosis and want to explore the best reproductive option for their case.
When there is a known genetic or hereditary condition in the family.
When one member of the couple carries a chromosomal abnormality.
When the couple already has a child with a genetic condition or chromosomal abnormality and wishes to plan another pregnancy.
This type of counselling is recommended for women over 35 years of age.
When a foetal malformation or abnormality has been detected.
Genetic and reproductive counselling can be carried out at different stages of the reproductive process, depending on the circumstances of each patient or couple.
Before assisted reproduction treatment, it can help identify and assess potential genetic risks and understand the reproductive options available before starting treatment.
During treatment, it may be appropriate when new medical history, test results or circumstances arise that require a specific genetic assessment.
During pregnancy, it can also be carried out if new concerns arise or abnormalities are detected in prenatal tests. In these cases, counselling helps explain the results, assess their potential implications and guide the patient or couple through the available options.
