Genetic counselling: Insightful guidance for smarter health choices

Why is Genetic Counselling Important?

Genetic counselling is key to making informed choices about your health and your family’s future. It offers expert support and guidance at every step, helping you navigate complex genetic information with confidence.

With MedGenome’s genetic counselling, you can:

• Gain clarity about genetic conditions and what they mean for you.
• Understand your family’s medical history and inherited health risks.
• Explore genetic testing options and what the results could imply.
• Make informed decisions about testing, treatment, and family planning.
• Discuss reproductive options and plan for the future with confidence.
• Receive emotional support in coping with genetic diagnoses.

Who Should Consider Genetic Counselling?

Genetic counselling is recommended if you have:

• A personal or family history of genetic disorders, birth defects, or certain types of cancer.
• A consanguineous marriage (marriage between blood relatives).
• Pregnancy at age 35 or older, or are planning one.
• Abnormal results from genetic or prenatal screening tests.
• Plans to undergo assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF.
• A history of multiple miscarriages or other complications during pregnancy.
• Experienced the loss of a child due to a suspected or known genetic condition.
• An interest in understanding your risk for inherited diseases like cancer or heart conditions.
• A need for guidance in choosing or interpreting genetic tests.

What Can I Expect in a Genetic Counselling Session?

Genetic counselling is not just a one-time appointment. It is a personalised process that can take place over multiple sessions. As your health, life stage, or reproductive plans change, so might your questions and needs. Genetic information can also evolve over time, so ongoing support helps ensure you always have the most up-to-date guidance to make informed decisions. This process typically includes pre-test and post-test counselling.

What Is Pre-Test Genetic Counselling?

Pre-test genetic counselling is a conversation designed to equip individuals or families with the information they need to make informed decisions about genetic testing. During this session, a genetic counsellor will:

• Review your personal, medical, and family history.
• Assess your risk of inheriting or developing a genetic condition.
• Explain the purpose of genetic testing.
• Provide information on the available tests and what they can reveal.
• Discuss the benefits and limitations of genetic testing.
• Explain basic genetics and how conditions are inherited.
• Explore future reproductive options.
• Address any concerns or questions you may have about the testing and its possible outcomes.

What Is Post-Test Genetic Counselling?

Post-test genetic counselling is a structured process in which a genetic counsellor explains your test results, helps you understand their meaning, and supports you in processing the emotional, medical, and familial implications. During this session, a genetic counsellor will:

• Interpret the results of your genetic test.
• Explain what the results mean for you and your family.
• Address any emotional, psychological, or social concerns.
• Discuss whether additional testing is needed.
• Explain inheritance patterns and the likelihood of recurrence.
• Provide guidance on informing at-risk relatives.
• Offer information on management, treatment, or preventive measures.
• Refer you to relevant resources, specialists, or support groups if needed.

Why Choose MedGenome's Genetic Counselling?

MedGenome’s online genetic counselling offers expert support from certified genetic counsellors in a convenient, virtual format that fits into your schedule. After each session, whether pre-test, post-test, or a follow-up, you will receive a written summary of the key points discussed. This helps you understand your risks, testing options, and next steps. Whether you’re looking to interpret genetic test results, explore hereditary risks, or plan for a healthy future, our flexible and personalised approach ensures high-quality care tailored to your needs. Book your session today and take informed control of your health.