Genetic Counselling

Process of determining the risk of a particular genetic disorder occurring within a family and providing information and advice based on that determination; used to help couples in family planning and in the care of children affected or thought to be affected with a particular genetic disorder. An accurate diagnosis is essential and may require special biochemical and cell studies; a careful and complete family medical history is also needed. The subjects of prenatal diagnosis, artificial insemination, sterilization, and termination of pregnancy may be included in the counselling, depending on the particular disease and circumstances involved.

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NHS: Genetic testing and counselling