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Genetic Counseling

At UWH of The Carolinas, we’re here to guide you from your first thoughts of parenthood all the way through to welcoming your baby into the world. Genetic counseling is a great first step in ensuring you and your future baby get the healthiest possible start.

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When Should You Consider Genetic Counseling?

Genetic counseling empowers you with information about hereditary risks and testing options. You may benefit from a consultation if you:

  • Have a personal or family history of genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, Tay–Sachs disease, sickle cell disease, or any other inherited disorder.
  • Are a known carrier of a genetic variant identified through prior testing.
  • Experienced previous pregnancy complications or had a child diagnosed with a genetic condition.
  • Received abnormal prenatal screening results (e.g., non‑invasive prenatal testing, biochemical screening).
  • Are age 35 or older at the time of delivery—a factor associated with increased chromosomal risks.

Even without a known risk factor, many individuals and couples choose genetic counseling simply to feel informed before and during pregnancy.

Family History of Genetic Conditions

If you or your partner have a family history of inherited conditions, genetic counseling can help assess your risk of passing those conditions to your child.

  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Tay-Sachs
  • Sickle Cell Disease

We also recommend consultation if you’ve previously had a child with a genetic condition or if prenatal testing has revealed unusual results.

What to Expect During Your First Genetic Counseling Appointment

During your first consultation, your provider will spend time getting to know your story. You’ll chat about your medical background, birth control history, previous pregnancies or attempts, and address any fertility concerns.

After that discussion, your provider will do basic bloodwork to measure fertility factors, such as:

  • Hormone Levels
  • Thyroid Function
  • Progesterone Levels
  • Ovarian Reserve
  • Ovulation

You’re encouraged to bring your partner or a support person along for comfort and support. Your partner might also be invited for a simple semen analysis to assess sperm quality and quantity, rounding out the full fertility picture.

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How Genetic Testing and Screening Can Help You

Genetic testing gives you clarity about your family’s health story before your little one arrives. It looks closely at genes, chromosomes, and proteins, providing essential insights about conditions you or your partner could pass to your child. This screening can confirm or rule out hereditary conditions, providing reassurance and helping you plan confidently.

Your provider may do imaging studies, such as ultrasounds or an X-ray called HSG, to check your reproductive anatomy. A gentle pelvic exam might also take place, giving your provider valuable information about your overall reproductive health.

Schedule Genetic Counseling with Your Provider

Every parent hopes for a healthy pregnancy and baby, and genetic counseling can help clarify any concerns early. Starting your family planning with a fertility assessment or genetic counseling appointment can be empowering and reassuring.

When you’re ready, reach out to UWH of The Carolinas. We’re eager to help you build your family, ensuring your journey to parenthood is supported every step of the way.

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