Genetic Counseling?

[mc77]

Has anyone ever received genetic counseling? I just had my third miscarriage and my obgyn referred me to see one. I was wondering how long the process takes from the time I make an appointment to trying to get pregnant again. I also wanted to know what kinds of test do they do? I'm nervous about getting poked and prodded after having 3 miscarriages. ;(

[Krystal5]

I'm not nearly an expert on this, but I can share my experience.

I had genetic counseling before we even tried for Maiya, because cystic fibrosis runs in the family. I also had chromosomal testing done after my miscarriage (which of course is different than genetic counseling, but kind of applies to the miscarriage aspect of your question).

For the counseling, it was very easy. We had an "interview" where they went over our family history. We did have to have a thorough history before hand, which took some time, but wasn't bad. They asked a few other questions, too. Hubby and I both had to then get lots of blood work done. Mine was more extensive- I actually had to bring a special kit with me to the lab and it had to be sent off somewhere special. It only took one poke, though. It was like... 6 vials?? Maybe even 9. It was crazy!! But it was just one poke, one time. Quick and almost easy! Just be sure to eat lots and have like orange juice or something with you in case you get dizzy giving so much blood (if you do the same as me).

If I remember right, it was fairly quick. This was a long time ago, but I'm thinking less than a month for everything.

I'm so sorry for your losses.

Hang in there, I hope you go through with this and get some answers!!

[PatNSamsMommy]

I was referred to genetics for my last pregnancy in Feb. At 9 weeks a cystic hyograma was detected on my high risk ultrasound (I'm hyperthyroid on meds). I was immediately referred to genetics where they discussed everything the baby could possibly have. I had blood drawn as did my hubby. At 11weeks I had a missed miscarriage and it was later found that the baby had pallister killian (an extra chromosome in all but 2 of the chromosomes) and turners syndrome (short chromosome in the sex chromo). Both are very rare.. and aren't likely for re-occurrence.

I was told that because of this and my age (I'm 36) I qualify for additional testing this time (I'm 5 weeks currently). I've decided I'll be having the high risk u/s again at 9 weeks and the 2screen blood work, depending on what those show I'll decide on the CVS or amnio. In CA (don't know about other states) the state actually pays for the CVS and amnio if you have had genetic issues in previous pregnancies.

My genetics dr was a gods send. She explained everything to me prior to miscarrying, and then made sure that she followed up and reassured me afterwards. I'm sure I'll meet with her at least once during this pregnancy.

[nikki12]

Genetic counselors are helpful and you can to go them to ask about any concerns you have during your pregnancy such as if you think taking X medicine will be bad for you baby. One of the best things about them are that you don't necessarily have to see one in person to get help since there are risk lines you can call. One I know off the top of my head is TTIS (Texas Teratogen Information Services). If you want to try them, their number is 1-800-733-4727 Hope this can be of help to you.