Genetic Counselling: Empowering Families for a Healthier Future at Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre
Pregnancy is a time of great anticipation and joy, but it can also bring about questions and concerns about the health and well-being of the baby. Among the many factors influencing the health of the unborn child, genetics plays a crucial role. Some inherited conditions or genetic disorders can pose risks to the fetus, making genetic counselling an essential part of modern prenatal care. At Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre in Nagpur, under the expert guidance of Dr. Kunda Shahane, genetic counselling is offered to empower families with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and future.
What is Genetic Counselling?
Genetic counselling is a process in which healthcare professionals provide information and guidance to individuals or families regarding genetic conditions and their risks. It is particularly important for couples who may have a family history of genetic disorders, are planning a pregnancy, or are pregnant and concerned about the possibility of a genetic condition in the fetus.
The aim of genetic counselling is to educate families about the likelihood of passing on certain genetic conditions, the available testing options, and the potential outcomes. This helps parents make informed decisions about their pregnancy, including whether to undergo further testing or to prepare for the possibility of a genetic condition in the child.
At Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre, Dr. Kunda Shahane and her team offer expert genetic counselling services, guiding families through the complexities of genetic risks, inheritance patterns, and testing options. The centre’s compassionate approach ensures that parents receive personalized support during every step of the decision-making process.
Why is Genetic Counselling Important?
Genetic counselling is important because it helps families understand the potential risks associated with genetic disorders and the options available for testing and management. Some conditions, such as Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and thalassemia, can be inherited, and genetic counselling provides valuable insights into how these conditions are passed down through generations.
For expectant parents, genetic counselling helps assess the risk of these conditions in the baby and provides an opportunity for early detection. This allows families to make well-informed decisions, such as considering prenatal screening or diagnostic tests, planning for the future, and preparing for the possibility of a child with special needs.
Furthermore, genetic counselling helps reduce the anxiety and uncertainty that may arise when faced with the possibility of a genetic condition. By providing clear, evidence-based information, Dr. Shahane and her team ensure that families feel supported and equipped to make the best choices for their unique circumstances.
Who Should Consider Genetic Counselling?
Genetic counselling is beneficial for a wide range of individuals and couples, including:
- Couples with a family history of genetic conditions: If either parent has a genetic condition or if there is a history of inherited disorders in the family, genetic counselling can help assess the risk of passing on these conditions to the child.
- Women over the age of 35: Advanced maternal age can increase the risk of certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome. Genetic counselling helps assess these risks and explore testing options.
- Couples with a history of pregnancy loss or birth defects: If a couple has experienced recurrent miscarriages or a previous child with a birth defect, genetic counselling can help identify underlying genetic factors that may be contributing to these issues.
- Couples who are carriers of genetic disorders: Some people may carry a genetic mutation for a condition but not show symptoms themselves. Genetic counselling can help determine whether these carriers are at risk of passing on the condition to their children.
- Couples planning a pregnancy: Preconception genetic counselling can help couples understand their genetic risks before conception, offering them the chance to make informed decisions and seek appropriate testing.
Services Offered in Genetic Counselling at Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre
At Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre, Dr. Kunda Shahane and her team provide a comprehensive range of genetic counselling services tailored to each family’s unique needs. These services include:
- Risk Assessment and Family History Review
Dr. Shahane conducts a thorough review of the family’s medical history, including any genetic disorders or birth defects, to assess the likelihood of genetic conditions being passed on to the baby. This assessment helps identify potential risks and informs the decision-making process regarding further testing.
- Genetic Testing and Screening
Based on the family history and individual circumstances, Dr. Shahane may recommend genetic screening or testing options, such as:
Carrier Screening: To determine if one or both parents carry a genetic mutation for conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or thalassemia.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT): A blood test that analyzes fetal DNA to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome.
Amniocentesis and Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): Diagnostic tests used to obtain samples of amniotic fluid or placental tissue to assess for genetic conditions.
- Explaining Genetic Conditions and Inheritance Patterns
Genetic counselling also involves educating parents about the nature of genetic conditions, how they are inherited, and the potential risks to the child. Dr. Shahane provides clear explanations of complex genetic concepts, helping families understand the implications of their choices.
- Support and Guidance
Genetic counselling is not only about providing information but also about offering emotional support. Dr. Shahane and her team are dedicated to helping parents navigate the often overwhelming decisions associated with genetic risks. Whether it involves discussing options for prenatal testing, preparing for the birth of a child with special needs, or exploring reproductive options, the team at Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre provides compassionate, personalized guidance every step of the way.
The Role Genetic Counselling
Dr. Kunda Shahane’s expertise in fetal medicine and high-risk pregnancies makes her an invaluable resource for families seeking genetic counselling. With years of experience in managing complex pregnancies, Dr. Shahane has the knowledge and sensitivity needed to guide families through the challenges of genetic conditions. She is committed to providing clear, evidence-based information and ensuring that every family feels supported and empowered to make the best decisions for their future.
Genetic counselling is a powerful tool for expectant parents, offering them the knowledge and support they need to navigate the complexities of genetic risks. At Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre, Dr. Kunda Shahane and her team provide comprehensive genetic counselling services that help families make informed decisions about their pregnancy and future. By assessing risks, explaining options, and offering emotional support, they ensure that families are empowered to make the best choices for their health and the well-being of their baby.
If you are concerned about genetic conditions or if you simply want to ensure a healthy pregnancy, Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High Risk Pregnancy Centre is here to help. Contact Dr. Kunda Shahane today for expert genetic counselling and take the first step toward a healthier, more informed future for your family.
