Genetic Testing

At the Center for Prenatal Pediatrics, a genetic counselor is available to discuss what an abnormal ultrasound or screening results could mean for your unborn baby and the pregnancy.

Prenatal genetic counseling provides information and support to people whose unborn baby is at risk for a genetic disorder. A prenatal genetic counselor meets with you to discuss specific genetic risks, the possibility of chromosome abnormalities or genetic syndromes, as well as genetic testing. There are many reasons to seek prenatal genetic counseling. You may consider it if you:

  • Have or are concerned that you may have an inherited disorder
  • Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant after age 35
  • Already have a child with a genetic disorder or birth defect
  • Have had two or more miscarriages
  • Have already experienced the loss of a child

Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals who combine their knowledge of basic science, medical genetics, and counseling theory with their skills in genetic risk assessment, education, and interpersonal communication to help patients understand the implications of genetic disease. This includes interpretation of family medical history and the chance of disease occurrence and risk of recurrence; education about inheritance, testing, management, and prevention; and counseling about informed choices.

To learn more about genetic testing at Columbia, visit the Women's Genetics division.