Preconception counseling is recommended for women who have a history of:
Bad obstetric history
Index child with a genetic/chromosomal disorder
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Chronic conditions, such as heart disease or lupus
Complications with a previous pregnancy or childbirth
The objective of antenatal counseling for fetal anomalies are to clarify the following points:
Whether the malformations in the fetus that are ‘Lethal’ (not compatible with postnatal life).
If the malformations are compatible with life, whether they may be associated with significant postnatal morbidity and long-term disability.
Fetal conditions with the potential for intrauterine therapy to prevent morbidity and mortality.
Fetal conditions that will require postnatal investigation or treatment and lead to a reasonably good outcome.
Possibility of recurrence in future pregnancies.
Need for modifying Obstetric management due to the present fetal condition and the implications on Obstetric decisions in future pregnancies.
Genetic counseling is the process of checking family medical history and medical records,ordering genetic tests,evaluating the results of these tests and records and helping parents understand and reach decisions about what to do next.
