Genetic counseling?

Hi...I'm new here (well, not new to LIF but trying to stay incognito since I have just decided to go off the pill next month and see what happens. We don't want to tell anyone anything, but I do have lots of questions.

First of all being did anyone go for genetic testing before they got pregnant? We have some medical/psychological things in both our backgrounds and I would feel better going for this before I get pregnant.

Any recommendations for any geneticists ? Also, do you know if they take insurance?

Thanks!

Re: Genetic counseling?

There are two types of genetic testing. When you go to an RE, they usually do what's called the 'genetic panel' or 'cytogenetic testing'. Mostly that relates to your ethnic background. If you and your dh are from different backgrounds, and one of you was tested and not a carrier that's usually where the testing ends. If you are from the same background, both should be tested. These panels test to see if you are carriers of cystic fibrosis, etc. You are also tested for rubella, variocella, parvo., hiv..the list is endless. Usually when you are pregnant they will test for these things if they haven't beforehand. Insurance should definitely cover it.

If you have miscarried, then they usually do a RPL panel. A general rpl panel, includes things like anticoagulant, anticardiolipin antibody, protein C, protein S, Anti phospholipid antibodies and anti-thyroid antibodies. ...you can also have karotyping done...to see if there is an chromosomal issues. You can get these tested at Quest Labs. If they come back positive you then see a genetic counselor. Genetic counseling is included as part of a lot of insurance companies.

Re: Genetic counseling?

my doctor had us fill out a form first, then depending on that, would have recommended genetic counseling (ie: for cystic fibrosis, Tay Sachs-I'm jewish, etc.) but because there is NO family history of anything, we were young and healthy-they said we didn't need it.

It also depends on insurance too...some won't cover it unless deemed necessary