Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, Oct 27: While many couples eagerly plan for parenthood, one essential step often gets overlooked — genetic counselling. Health experts stress that consulting a genetic counsellor before pregnancy can significantly reduce risks of inherited disorders and help ensure a healthy start for the baby.

Genetic counselling offers couples vital insights into their family and medical histories, enabling them to understand the chances of passing on genetic conditions such as thalassemia, Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or muscular dystrophy. The process involves evaluating lifestyle and hereditary factors and providing guidance on available tests and preventive measures.

According to experts, this proactive consultation is especially crucial for couples with a family history of genetic disorders, women over 35, men above 40, and those who have faced recurrent miscarriages, stillbirths, or previous pregnancy complications. During the session, counsellors review medical records, discuss risks, and may recommend genetic tests to identify potential carrier statuses.

Benefits of genetic counselling

• Early risk detection: Helps identify inherited conditions early, allowing timely interventions.
• Personalized pregnancy planning: Couples receive tailored advice for conception and pregnancy based on genetic and medical assessments.
• Informed decision-making: Provides clarity on testing options like carrier screening, prenatal diagnosis, and preimplantation testing.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: Reassures parents by addressing uncertainties and offering emotional support.
• Healthier future for the baby: Ensures informed choices that safeguard the baby’s long-term well-being.

Doctors emphasize that genetic counselling empowers parents-to-be with knowledge and confidence, ensuring a safe, planned, and stress-free pregnancy.

“Genetic counselling is not just for those with known health issues; it’s for every couple planning a baby. It helps identify hidden risks and promotes early action,” experts said, urging couples not to delay the process.

With awareness still limited, healthcare professionals call on all would-be parents to make genetic counselling an integral part of pregnancy planning — a step toward a healthy baby and a happier tomorrow.