Maternal-fetal medicine genetic counseling
We help families understand genetic risks before and during pregnancy. Our program offers testing options, counseling and coordinated support for personal decisions.
Experienced in helping families understand
Prenatal and preconception genetic counseling involves a thorough review of age-related risk, exposure history, medical and pregnancy history, family history and ethnicity, as well as a discussion about available prenatal testing options and coordination of testing. At Atlantic Health, patients referred for prenatal diagnosis and invasive genetic testing, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and/or amniocentesis, have genetic counseling prior to their visit.
Atlantic Health genetic counselors are board-certified by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. Our health care professionals are experienced in helping families understand available testing options, birth defects and how inheritance works. They provide information that helps families make personal decisions about pregnancy and genetic testing.
Common maternal-fetal genetic tests
Amniocentesis
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)
Carrier screening for cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy, fragile X, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, Ashkenazi Jewish carrier screening, pan-ethnic/expanded carrier screening panels, etc.
First trimester screening, including nuchal translucency ultrasound
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)/cell-free fetal DNA screening
When needed, the Hersh Fetal Center is available for pregnant women who are carrying a baby with a congenital anomaly (birth defect) or other condition which may require multidisciplinary care.