Genetic Counselling

Genetic counselling is a discussion — not a test. It is a consultation in which your history, your reports and any screening results are reviewed together, so that the options in front of you are explained clearly.

The purpose is to help you understand what is known, what is not known, and what each further test can and cannot tell you.

It may be suggested when a screening test reports an increased chance of a condition, when a scan finding needs further discussion, or where there is a relevant family or obstetric history.

It may also be considered before pregnancy, or where parents are closely related, if your treating doctor feels a discussion would help.

Typically: what the available screening and diagnostic tests involve, how their results should be read, what the practical next steps could be, and what choosing not to test would mean.

No decision is made for you. The aim is that any decision you take is an informed one, taken with your treating doctor.

Please carry your referral, previous scan reports and any screening or laboratory results, along with details of relevant family history.

Appointments are arranged in advance so that adequate consultation time is set aside.