Genetic Testing & Counseling
Genetic syndromes such as Down syndrome, trisomy 13, trisomy 18 and many others can account for as many as 50% of miscarriages and are a common reason why families may pursue termination of pregnancy. If you've recently had a pregnancy loss, termination for medical reasons, and/or pregnancy with abnormal ultrasound, you can talk with your OB-GYN about genetic testing options and request a referral for genetic counseling.
Our genetic information provides the instructions for our bodies' development and abnormalities within our genetic code can result in pregnancy loss or a pregnancy with abnormal findings on ultrasound. Many genetic syndromes occur by chance, but some can be inherited from a healthy parent. Genetic testing can help you understand the reason for a loss and predict the chances for the same genetic syndrome to occur in a subsequent pregnancy.
Your OB-GYN provider can discuss certain genetic tests but may refer you for genetic counseling. Genetic counselors are specialized providers who are trained to help families understand the genetic testing process and genetic diagnoses that may be identified through testing. Genetic counselors often see families for the following reasons:
- Abnormal genetic screening or testing results
- Miscarriages (3 or more), stillbirth(s), or baby who died after birth
- Current or prior pregnancy with abnormal ultrasound or confirmed genetic diagnosis
- Genetic condition in the family
No genetic test is perfect. If testing ordered by your OBGYN returned normal but your pregnancy had abnormal ultrasound findings, there may be more specialized genetic tests available. Your genetic counselor can determine if additional genetic testing is appropriate.
You can also find and contact a genetic counselor near you
Empty Arms Lactation After Loss Support provides support for parents through any and all emotional responses they may face in response to lactation.
Learn more about genetic testing after miscarriage