Are you wondering what your family history means for your future baby? Navigating the world of prenatal health can feel overwhelming. At Desert Perinatal Associates, we help expectant parents find clarity and peace of mind during their pregnancy journeys.
Our team of maternal-fetal medicine specialists, including Joseph Adashek, MD, FACOG, provides compassionate care at our offices in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada. We offer advanced genetic testing and counseling services to help you understand your options and make informed decisions for your pregnancy. Here’s a look at what you can learn from genetic counseling, who is a good candidate, and how to understand your results.
Genetic counseling helps you understand how family history and genetics might affect your pregnancy. According to the Journal of Personalized Medicine (2023), there are over 37,000 clinical genetic tests actively available in the United States, with the vast majority used for diagnostic purposes. A counselor helps translate these complex tests into clear, actionable information about your baby's health.
These sessions can reveal whether you or your partner carry genes for inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia. They also help explain the likelihood of chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome, and guide you through the next steps of your care. Understanding these risks early allows you to make the best choices for your family's future.
While anyone can benefit from genetic counseling, it is highly recommended for individuals with specific risk factors. If you are over age 35, have a family history of genetic disorders, or have experienced previous pregnancy complications, counseling is a vital step. Our specialists help you understand your personal risk profile in a supportive environment.
As genetic science continues to advance, the demand for these specialized services is growing rapidly. In fact, research from The Ohio State University College of Medicine (2023) shows that employment for genetic counselors is projected to increase by 18% due to the expanding impact of genomic technologies on patient care.
It is important to know that genetic testing is not always a simple yes or no. A common myth is that a negative test result completely rules out a genetic cause for a condition. However, a study in Neurology (2024) notes that reanalyzing the same genetic data a year or two later frequently uncovers new, clinically actionable diagnoses as science evolves.
Whether you want to understand your risks or need guidance after an unusual screening result, we are here to support you. Our specialists combine advanced technology with personalized care to give you the answers you deserve. To learn more about our services, please contact our team to schedule a consultation at one of our Southern Nevada offices today.
