Genetic Counseling

Scope

• Genetic Risk Assessment and Testing
• Candidates for amniocentesis must be ≤ 20 weeks gestation on the day of their genetic clinic appointment

Appropriate patients for referral include:

• Advanced Maternal Age (AMA): maternal age D 35 years old at delivery and patient consents to an amnio; must watch video; see below.
• Abnormal TAST screening test; amnio may or may not be indicated
• Family history of birth defects, mental retardation, or genetic diseases
• Personal history of birth defects, mental retardation, or genetic disease
• Exposure to teratogens such as alcohol, drugs, and medications for maternal diseases (e.g. Insulin-dependent diabetes). Patient may prefer to call Texas Teratogen Information Service for free pregnancy exposure/risk counseling at 1-800-733-4727.
• Abnormal ultrasound findings (fetal abnormalities)
• Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (D 2 SAB)
• Consanguineous matings

IMPORTANT! Before scheduling an appointment for genetic counseling, patient must watch video titled, “Prenatal Diagnosis of Birth Defects: Amniocentesis”.

Documentation required for scheduling an appointment:

• Completed referral form
• Pertinent Lab results (TAST, hemoglobin electrophoresis, blood type, etc.)
• Ultrasound report(s)
• Title V Screening Document, if eligible

NOTE: Instruct patient to report to specialty clinic appointment no earlier than 15-30 minutes prior to appointment time.