Count on the Reproductive Genetic Screening Experts in Stamford Health’s Women’s Specialty Center to Customize a Care Plan That Answers Your Questions and Meets Your Needs.
Genetic testing for parents and developing babies has made amazing strides. Parents and babies can benefit from our new technology that detects more conditions with greater accuracy. You may be wondering:
- How do I know that the right tests are being done?
- How do I know my results are being interpreted correctly?
- What are my options if something is detected?
Is Genetic Counseling for Me?
You don’t need a family history of hereditary disorders, a specific diagnosis or a physician’s referral for genetic counseling at the Women’s Specialty Center. You can benefit from genetic counseling at any point in your journey to becoming a parent.
Your Consultation
Meet with a genetic counselor to determine the best diagnostic tests and screenings for you. You’ll receive your options in a compassionate, supportive environment.
Prenatal Genetic Specialists
Work with a genetic counselor who specializes in prenatal and fetal genetics. This means they can help you understand your family’s risk for an inherited condition — so you can make informed choices.
Types of Reproductive Genetic Testing:
Access a wide variety of reproductive genetic screenings and tests, including:
- Preconception testing (carrier screening)—Reveals whether you carry a gene for a certain genetic disorder
- Prenatal genetic tests—Tell you the chances that your unborn baby may have a certain disorder (or diagnose a disorder)
- Postnatal genetic tests—Check your newborn for certain genetic diseases or help diagnose a condition
Diagnostic Tests & Screenings
- Noninvasive prenatal tests (NIPT)—Check your blood for signs of Down syndrome and other chromosomal disorders; performed as early as nine weeks of pregnancy
- Amniocentesis—Examines your amniotic fluid to detect neural tube defects (like spina bifida), chromosome abnormalities (like Down syndrome) and genetic disorders (like cystic fibrosis); usually performed between 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)—Tests small tissue samples from your placenta to detect certain birth defects and genetic abnormalities in your baby; usually performed between 10 to 13 weeks of pregnancy
- Fetal echocardiography—Evaluates your baby’s heart using sound waves; usually performed between18 to 24 weeks of pregnancy
- Preimplantation genetic diagnosis—Checks embryos for genetic defects before transferring them to the uterus during an in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment
Getting Your Results
Get fast access to your results since they’re typically available the same day. Your genetic counselors will explain your test results to you and help you understand your options.
Insurance Coverage
Your insurance may cover all of or part of the cost of your reproductive genetics consultation since it’s a medical visit. We also offer affordable payment plans.