Genetic counselling

Medical guidance offered to prospective parents based on an assessment of the probability that a future child would be affected by a genetic disorder. This assessment is made from individual and family medical histories and, in some cases, the results of tests such as chromosome analysis and genetic probes. Genetic counselling enables people to make informed decisions about parenthood, which may involve the use of techniques such as selective termination of pregnancy or in vitro fertilization to optimize the chances of having a healthy child.

 

Online Medical Dictionary: Your essential reference to over 5000 medical terms.