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Preconception + Prenatal Genetic Counseling

When planning to have a baby, it's crucial to prioritize your little one's health. We're here to provide counseling, so you can make wise choices and be fully prepared for what's to come.

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Helping you plan for a healthy family

Your OBGYN may recommend standard prenatal screenings, such as those for Down syndrome, regardless of whether you or your partner have a family history or are carriers of a genetic disorder.

You or your partner should consider additional testing if:

  • You're having trouble getting pregnant or have had 3 or more miscarriages
  • You have a family history of a specific genetic condition
  • You have an ethnic background (e.g., Ashkenazi, African American, French Canadian) in which some genetic diseases are more prevalent
  • Your OBGYN has determined your baby is at risk for a genetic syndrome
Andrea Zuckerman, MD, Chief of Women’s Care at Tufts Medical Center, in clinic examining pregnant patient Van Khanh Tran.
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Conditions

We are experts at diagnosing and screening for common genetic syndromes and conditions, including:

Congenital disorders
Cystic fibrosis
Down syndrome
Fragile X syndrome
Hemophilia
Sickle cell anemia
Spinal muscular atrophy
Tay Sachs disease
Thalassemia
Turner syndrome
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Testing

We know that pregnancy can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially when it comes to your baby's health. That's why we have a variety of tests available to help identify any genetic conditions that your baby may have a change of having.

These tests can give you peace of mind and ensure that both you and your baby receive the best possible care, including:

  • Preconception screening where you can find out if you carry any gene mutations that may be shared with your children
  • Prenatal screening where we determine if there's a possibility your baby may have a genetic condition
  • Postnatal and newborn testing where we diagnose a genetic condition
  • Counseling can help you understand your reproductive options
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Treatments

Our doctors and genetic counselors provide support throughout your screening and diagnosis, helping you make the best reproductive choices for your family.

How genetic counseling can help you

Genetic counselors help you and your family understand genetic disorders and how they may impact your child while providing support and resources to make informed decisions about their health, including:

  • Help you decide if genetic testing is right for you
  • Provide more information about your or your child's condition
  • Review treatment plans and answer questions
  • Assist with getting referrals to the appropriate specialists
  • Help you talk to family members about whether they should consider genetic screening
  • Connect you with resources such as support groups, local organizations and reliable online sources
  • Work with your insurance company on coverage for our services

What if my child has a genetic condition?

We make transitioning from prenatal to pediatric care easy and worry-free. Our doctor and genetic counselor team cares for hereditary disorders in adults and children.

This means you and your child can continue receiving care — from the same team you saw during your family planning and pregnancy.

Anasuya Gunturi MD, PhD talks with patient at Lowell General Hospital's Women's Wellness Center clinic appointment.
Our locations

From regular office visits to inpatient stays, find the healthcare you need and deserve close to home.

Family physician Sarwada Tuladhar Jha, MD talking to patient during exam at a clinic appointment and inputting health information at the computer.
Our doctors + care team

Meet the doctors and care team devoted to supporting you every step of the way along your path to better health.

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