Genetic counselling is a specialized field of healthcare that involves helping individuals and families understand the risks and implications of genetic conditions. Despite the growing popularity of genetic counselling, there are still many misconceptions surrounding this field. Genetic counselling is a process that helps individuals and families understand the genetic risks of certain conditions, and choose the right genetic test for the situation. This type of counselling involves discussions with a trained clinical geneticist who can provide information, support, and guidance. 

 

In this blog, we'll discuss five common misconceptions about genetic counselling and separate fact from fiction.

 

Discuss the 5 Common Misconceptions About Genetic Counselling - 

 

Following are the 5 Common Misconceptions About Genetic Counselling:

 

1. Genetic Counselling Is Only for People with Genetic Conditions:

One of the biggest misconceptions about genetic counselling is that it's only for people who have a genetic condition. However, genetic counselling can be helpful for anyone who wants to learn more about their own risks and in their future generations did you know that in India 1 in 3 persons is a carrier of beta-thalassemia and in 40 people is a carrier for spinal muscular atrophy. Hence even without a family history. These disorders may occur in many families for the first time.

 

2. Genetic Counselling Is Only About Predicting Future Health Problems:

Another common misconception is that genetic consultation is solely focused on predicting future health problems. While predicting the risk of future health problems is an important aspect of genetic counselling, it's not the only one. Clinical geneticists can also provide support and guidance to individuals who are already living with a genetic condition. They can connect you to support groups or new research & treatments for genetic disorders.

 

3. Genetic Counselling Is Only for Pregnant Women:

Many people believe that genetic counselling is only for pregnant women who want to assess their risk of having a child. While genetic counselling can certainly be helpful for pregnant women, it's not limited to this population. Genetic counselling can be useful for anyone who wants to learn more about their genetic makeup and how it may impact their health. Ideally, as genetic testing is complex and takes time a clinical geneticist can help you to clarify things well in advance before planning a pregnancy.

 

4. Genetic counselling is intended solely for individuals who are interested in undergoing genetic testing:

While genetic counselling is certainly helpful for individuals who are considering genetic testing, it's not limited to this population. Genetic counsellors can help individuals understand their family history, and assess their risk for certain conditions. Also, make informed decisions about their healthcare. They can also provide emotional support and help individuals navigate the healthcare system.

 

5. Genetic Counselling Is Only for People with a Strong Family History of a Genetic Condition:

Finally, individuals believe that genetic consultation is only necessary for individuals with a strong family history of a genetic condition. While having a family history of a genetic condition can certainly increase an individual's risk for that condition, as genetic testing has become easily available and affordable more individuals who have a genetic disease without a family history are being recognized.

 

Types of Genetic Counselling: A Comprehensive Overview

 

Genetic counselling is a process that involves the provision of information and support to individuals or families. There are several different types of genetic counselling, which are tailored to meet the specific needs of the individual or family.

 

Here are some of the most common types of genetic counselling:

 

1. Preconception Counselling / Antenatal Counselling

This type of counselling is offered to individuals or couples who are planning or currently expecting to have children. The counsellor will discuss their genetic risk factors and provide information on how to reduce the risk of a genetic disorder.

 

2. Paediatric Counselling:

Paediatric counselling involves counselling families with children who have a genetic condition. The goal is to provide information about the genetic condition, its impact on the child's health, and available treatment options.

 

3. Cancer Genetic Counselling:

Cancer genetic counselling involves counselling individuals who have a personal or family history of cancer. The goal is to identify potential genetic risks for cancer and provide information about screening and prevention options.

 

4. Carrier Screening Counselling:

Carrier screening counselling involves counselling individuals or couples about their carrier status for genetic conditions. The goal is to provide information about the risk of passing on a genetic condition to their offspring. Overall, the goal of a genetic consultation is to empower individuals and families. And make informed decisions about their health and the health of their offspring.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, genetic counselling is an important and valuable resource for individuals who want to learn more about their genetic makeup.

 

By separating fact from fiction and dispelling common misconceptions about a different type of genetic counselling. We can help more people access the support and guidance they need to make informed decisions about their healthcare. Get expert insights on genetic counselling’s, benefits, and who should consider it. Book a session with a Clinical geneticist today.