Genetic Counseling Questions to Ask Before Pregnancy

Genetic counseling is not only for patients who are already pregnant. A preconception visit can help you understand inherited risks, carrier screening, and testing options before decisions feel time-sensitive.

This can be especially helpful if you have a family history of genetic conditions, prior pregnancy loss, a child with a congenital condition, known carrier status, or questions about age-related pregnancy risk.

Questions to bring to the visit

Ask what carrier screening is recommended for you and your partner, what results can and cannot tell you, and how long results may take. If a condition runs in your family, ask whether records or specific test results would help guide the conversation.

You can also ask how screening before pregnancy differs from screening during pregnancy, whether expanded carrier screening makes sense, and what options exist if both partners carry the same condition.

How counseling supports decision-making

A good counseling visit should not pressure you toward one decision. It should clarify risk, explain uncertainty, and help you match testing choices to your values. For some patients, the next step is simple reassurance. For others, it may be partner testing, IVF with preimplantation genetic testing, or a plan for prenatal screening.

Genetic counseling also gives your OB/GYN team useful information for pregnancy planning, including timing, referrals, and what results should be reviewed early.

Raveco Medical offers genetic counseling and prenatal screening guidance. Schedule a visit to discuss your family history and pregnancy plans.