Genetic Counseling

At Introlab in Belgrade, we provide genetic counseling services for individuals and families confronting genetic disorders or at risk of developing them. Our genetic tests and expert consultations offer valuable insights into how genetic changes might influence your health and that of your descendants.

What is genetic counseling?

Genetic counseling is a process where individuals or family members are provided with information about genetic disorders and conditions. These sessions cover the different mechanisms of inheritance and the likelihood of genetic diseases within families. During genetic counseling consultations, the risks of genetic changes that could impact their health and the health of their descendants are evaluated.

Who is genetic counseling for?

Genetic counseling is particularly beneficial for:

• Individuals with a family history of genetic disorders: People with known hereditary conditions in their family can receive information about how these diseases may affect them or their offspring, the risks of inheritance, and the most appropriate screening and diagnostic genetic tests available.
• Couples facing fertility issues: Couples dealing with infertility or recurrent miscarriages can gain insights into possible genetic causes and receive recommendations for next steps.
• Parents of children with chromosomal abnormalities: Counseling can help parents understand their child’s condition and provide information on possible treatments and support.
• Families with hereditary diseases: In cases where a hereditary disease is unclear or there is a suspicion of a genetic condition, counseling can offer guidance for further genetic testing.
• Families with monogenic disorders: Conditions such as cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and inherited metabolic disorders require specific information and support.
• Pregnant women with abnormal prenatal screening results: Women who receive abnormal results from prenatal tests can get additional information and advice on potential risks and further testing.

What does genetic counseling involve?

Genetic counseling includes:

• A detailed analysis of medical and family history: The geneticist will review the patient’s medical records and family history to identify potential genetic risks.
• Assessment by a clinical geneticist: This involves explaining hereditary conditions, identified genetic mutations, and their association with clinical conditions and diagnoses in the patient or family members.
• Information about available tests: The geneticist may recommend prenatal or postnatal tests depending on the patient’s individual situation.
• Answers to key questions: Patients receive answers to questions such as: What happened? Why did it happen? What are the prognoses? What treatment options are available? Could it happen again? Can it be prevented in future pregnancies?

Genetic tests and their significance

One of the key aspects of genetic counseling is informing patients about the available genetic tests. These tests may include:

• Prenatal tests: Such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling, which can detect genetic abnormalities before birth, as well as non-invasive prenatal tests from the mother’s blood that can be done in the early weeks of pregnancy.
• Postnatal tests: Tests conducted after birth, including screening newborns for congenital metabolic disorders and other genetic diseases, as well as testing in adults to diagnose conditions or guide appropriate therapy.
• Screening tests: These tests can determine whether parents are carriers of certain genetic mutations that could be passed on to their offspring, as well as assess whether a person has an increased risk of hereditary diseases.

Why is IntroLab the best choice for genetic counseling?

IntroLab in Belgrade stands out as the best option for genetic counseling thanks to our team of expert geneticists and the cutting-edge technology we use for accurate analysis and diagnosis. We are dedicated to delivering comprehensive and easy-to-understand information, empowering patients to make well-informed decisions about their health and their family’s well-being. Reach out to us today to schedule your consultation and get the information you need.