---
title: "High-risk pregnancy care | MFM | Sutter Health"
description: "Sutter's maternal fetal medicine specialists provide high-risk pregnancy care, fetal diagnosis and prenatal treatment across 10+ Northern California locations."
url: "https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/high-risk-pregnancy"
---

1.  [Home](https://www.sutterhealth.org/) /
2.  [Services](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services) /
3.  High-risk pregnancy

![pregnant-woman-talking-with-doctor](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/sutterhealt962c-sutterhealt8fce-production57cc-4860/media/Project/SutterHealth/SutterHealth/Images/medical-doctors/pregnant-woman-talking-with-doctor.png?h=1702&iar=0&w=2776)

# High-risk pregnancy

When a pregnancy calls for more specialized care, our team provides advanced fetal diagnostics and award-winning support all the way through postpartum, for you and your baby.

[Find an OB/Gyn](http://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?query=%22Maternal-Fetal+Medicine%22&verticalKey=healthcare_professionals)

![pregnant-woman-talking-with-doctor](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/sutterhealt962c-sutterhealt8fce-production57cc-4860/media/Project/SutterHealth/SutterHealth/Images/medical-doctors/pregnant-woman-talking-with-doctor.png?h=1702&iar=0&w=2776)

## Why Choose Sutter?

We know a high-risk pregnancy brings more questions, more appointments and more uncertainty. Maternal fetal medicine (MFM) specialists work alongside your OB, midwife, nurses, genetic counselors and neonatologists to coordinate your care. When planning delivery options like a C-section, MFMs also provide counseling to help guide you and your primary labor and delivery team. Together, the team stays focused on supporting you and your baby throughout pregnancy. It's one reason many of our hospitals are nationally recognized by [U.S. News & World Report](https://www.sutterhealth.org/about-us/awards/us-news-world-report?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_awardServices.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Pregnancy+and+Childbirth%22%5D%7D%5D&limit=10&verticalKey=us-news-world-report) for maternity care.

From preconception through postpartum, we provide specialty care for conditions that existed before pregnancy and those that develop along the way, including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and other high-risk pregnancy complications. Our prenatal diagnosis centers are AIUM-certified and state-certified — with comprehensive prenatal testing, subspecialty expertise and coordinated care that moves with you through every stage.

By the numbers

### 25+

specialists

bring dedicated care to high-risk pregnancies of every kind, from common to the most complex.

### 10+

MFM locations

put advanced maternal fetal medicine care within reach, wherever you are.

### 16

birth centers

awarded for high standards in keeping moms and babies safe and off to the best start.

### 400+

care team members

including obstetricians, nurses and midwives offer pregnancy and childbirth care.

## Need a referral? 

Chat live with our team Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, or call us at [888-834-1788](tel:+18888341788). 

[Request a referral](https://www.sutterhealth.org/referrals)

## Conditions

-   Advanced Maternal Age
-   Autoimmune disease
-   Cervical Insufficiency
-   [Gestational diabetes](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/gestational-diabetes-care)
-   Hyperemesis Gravidarum
-   Hypertension in Pregnancy
-   Intrauterine Growth Restriction
-   Multiple Pregnancy
-   Placenta Accreta
-   Placenta Previa
-   Placental Abruption
-   Preeclampsia
-   Premature Rupture of Membranes
-   Thyroid disease

## Diagnostics

-   Amniocentesis
-   Chorionic Villus Sampling
-   Down Syndrome Screening
-   Expanded Carrier Screening
-   Fetal Ultrasound
-   First Trimester Screening
-   Genetics Counseling
-   [Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/prenatal-care-and-testing)
-   [Prenatal testing](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/prenatal-care-and-testing)

## Treatments

-   Abdominal Cerclage
-   Cervical Cerclage
-   External Cephalic Version
-   Pregnancy Follow Up

## Related services

-   [Labor and delivery](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/labor-and-delivery)
-   [Pregnancy and childbirth](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/pregnancy-and-childbirth)

## Maternal Fetal Medicine Locations

### [5730 Telegraph Avenue Care Center](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/5730-telegraph-avenue-care-center-1043247043)

5730 Telegraph Avenue

Suite 117

Oakland, CA 94609 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=5730+Telegraph+Avenue+Oakland%2C+CA+94609+US)

[415-600-6400](tel:+14156006400)

415-396-1391

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Tuesday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Wednesday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Thursday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday Closed

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Tuesday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Wednesday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Thursday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday Closed

### [Sutter El Camino Real Care Center](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/sutter-el-camino-real-care-center-1043247202)

1720 El Camino Real

Burlingame, CA 94010 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=1720+El+Camino+Real+Burlingame%2C+CA+94010+US)

415-396-1391

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

Closed 12pm-1pm

### [Rohnert Park Center Lab](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/6000-state-farm-drive-lab-1043247302)

6000 State Farm Drive

Suite 150

Rohnert Park, CA 94928 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=6000+State+Farm+Drive+Rohnert+Park%2C+CA+94928+US)

[707-588-3020](tel:+17075883020)

707-585-7606

Sunday Closed

Monday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Tuesday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Wednesday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Thursday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Friday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday Closed

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Tuesday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Wednesday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Thursday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Friday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm

Saturday Closed

Closed for lunch 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM.

### [Van Ness Campus Medical Office Building](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/van-ness-campus-medical-office-building-1043247345)

1100 Van Ness Avenue

San Francisco, CA 94109 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=1100+Van+Ness+Avenue+San+Francisco%2C+CA+94109+US)

Sunday Closed

Monday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Tuesday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Wednesday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Thursday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Friday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Saturday 7:00 am - 2:00 pm

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Tuesday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Wednesday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Thursday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Friday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Saturday 7:00 am - 2:00 pm

### [Mountain View Maternal & Fetal Medicine](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/mountain-view-maternal-fetal-medicine-1043247228)

2495 Hospital Drive

Suite 400

Mountain View, CA 94040 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=2495+Hospital+Drive+Mountain+View%2C+CA+94040+US)

[650-404-8210](tel:+16504048210)

650-404-8219

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

### [San Carlos Center](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/san-carlos-center-1043246914)

301 Industrial Road

San Carlos, CA 94070 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=301+Industrial+Road+San+Carlos%2C+CA+94070+US)

[650-321-4121](tel:+16503214121)

Sunday Closed

Monday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Tuesday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

Tuesday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Wednesday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Thursday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Friday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Saturday 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

### [2577 Samaritan Drive Care Center](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/2577-samaritan-drive-care-center-1043247346)

2577 Samaritan Drive

Suites 700, 725, 745

San Jose, CA 95124 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=2577+Samaritan+Drive+San+Jose%2C+CA+95124+US)

### [Fremont Center](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/fremont-center-1043246895)

3200 Kearney Street

Fremont, CA 94538 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=3200+Kearney+Street+Fremont%2C+CA+94538+US)

[510-490-1222](tel:+15104901222)

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

### [Stockton Medical Plaza I](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/stockton-medical-plaza-i-1043246879)

2505 West Hammer Lane

Stockton, CA 95209 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=2505+West+Hammer+Lane+Stockton%2C+CA+95209+US)

[209-957-7050](tel:+12099577050)

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday Closed

Or as scheduled by physician.

### [Sutter Medical Plaza Sacramento](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/sutter-medical-plaza-sacramento-1043246607)

1625 Stockton Blvd.

Sacramento, CA 95816 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=1625+Stockton+Blvd.+Sacramento%2C+CA+95816+US)

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

**View additional hours**

Sunday Closed

Monday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Tuesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Wednesday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Thursday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Friday 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

### [Spanos Court Care Center](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-location/facility/spanos-court-care-center-1043247572)

1401 Spanos Court

Modesto, CA 95355 US

[Get directions](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/?api=1&destination=1401+Spanos+Court+Modesto%2C+CA+95355+US)

## Guidance for every stage of pregnancy 

Learn what to expect, how to prepare and where to find the care that fits your needs.

[Pregnancy and baby guide](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/pregnancy-baby-guide)

![doctor-stethescope-infant](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/sutterhealt962c-sutterhealt8fce-production57cc-4860/media/Project/SutterHealth/SutterHealth/Images/people/babies/doctor-stethescope-infant.jpg?h=600&iar=0&w=800)

## Maternal and infant health research

Maternal and infant health research aims to improve reproduction by increasing full-term pregnancies, ensuring healthy births and supporting mothers and babies after birth.

[View clinical trials](https://www.sutterhealth.org/research-search-results??query=%22maternal+and+infant+health%22)

![doctor-stethescope-infant](https://edge.sitecorecloud.io/sutterhealt962c-sutterhealt8fce-production57cc-4860/media/Project/SutterHealth/SutterHealth/Images/people/babies/doctor-stethescope-infant.jpg?h=600&iar=0&w=800)

Reproductive genetic testing

##### Reproductive genetic testing: Introduction & overview

##### Reproductive genetic testing: Ultrasound

##### Reproductive Genetic Testing: Screening Tests

##### Reproductive Genetic Testing: Diagnostic Tests

##### Reproductive Genetic Testing: Carrier Screening

##### Reproductive genetic testing: Genetic counseling

1 / 6

1 / 6

##### Reproductive genetic testing: Introduction & overview

##### Reproductive genetic testing: Ultrasound

##### Reproductive Genetic Testing: Screening Tests

##### Reproductive Genetic Testing: Diagnostic Tests

##### Reproductive Genetic Testing: Carrier Screening

##### Reproductive genetic testing: Genetic counseling

## Sutter spotlight

Health & wellness

### [Prenatal Trimester Checklist](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/prenatal-trimester-checklist)

From screenings to baby prep, we've got you covered.

Health & wellness

### [Health Conditions During Pregnancy](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/conditions)

Pregnancy can lead to unique problems, including preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Here’s what to watch for and what to do.

Health Q&A

### [Risks of Pregnancy After 35](https://www.sutterhealth.org/ask-an-expert/answers/risks-of-pregnancy-after-35-1051061426)

What are the risks of having a baby if I am 35 or older?

## Patient stories

[View all stories](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-stories)

-   [Patient story
    
    ### Mom Reflects on Micro-Preemie Twins’ Tumultuous Beginning
    
    ](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-stories/mom-reflects-on-micro-preemie-twins-tumultuous-beginning-2023563953)
-   [Patient story
    
    ### Twins Create New Home for High-Risk Pregnancies in Modesto
    
    ](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-stories/twins-create-new-home-for-high-risk-pregnancies-in-modesto-2023453244)

[View all stories](https://www.sutterhealth.org/patient-stories)

## Frequently asked questions

**What is considered a high-risk pregnancy, and does my age affect my risk?**

A pregnancy is considered high-risk when a condition in you or your baby requires closer monitoring. Common factors include:

-   Age over 35 or under 17
-   Carrying multiples
-   Preexisting conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
-   Fetal anomalies or known birth defects
-   History of miscarriage or premature birth
-   Certain infections or chronic conditions

**What's the difference between an OB and a maternal fetal medicine specialist?**

A maternal fetal medicine (MFM) specialist is an OB who completed additional training in high-risk pregnancies. Your OB continues to lead your care. Your MFM specialist works alongside them to manage complications, interpret advanced diagnostics and monitor both you and your baby.

[Find a MFM Provider](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?query=%22Maternal-Fetal+Medicine%22&verticalKey=healthcare_professionals)

**Do I need a referral to see a maternal fetal medicine specialist at Sutter?**

Most patients come to us through a referral from their OB, but you can also contact our team directly. Either way, our referral coordinators will help connect you with the right MFM specialist and confirm your coverage before your first appointment.

[Request a Referral](https://www.sutterhealth.org/referrals)

**What should I expect at my first MFM appointment?**

Your first visit is about building a clear picture of your pregnancy. We'll review your history, discuss any concerns and determine what monitoring or testing makes sense for you and your baby going forward.

**What makes Sutter's prenatal diagnosis centers different from a standard ultrasound?**

Our prenatal diagnosis centers are both AIUM-certified and state-certified — a dual standard that most imaging centers don't meet. That means your fetal ultrasounds are interpreted by specialists trained specifically in high-risk pregnancies.

## Take the next step in your pregnancy care

Find a maternal fetal medicine specialist who can provide the care and guidance you need throughout your pregnancy.

[Find an OB/Gyn](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_providerSpecialties.specialty.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Obstetrics+and+Gynecology%22%5D%7D%5D&limit=10&staticFilters=%5B%7B%22displayName%22%3A%22Sutter+Health+provider%22%2C%22selected%22%3Atrue%2C%22filter%22%3A%7B%22kind%22%3A%22fieldValue%22%2C%22fieldId%22%3A%22c_providerIsSutterHealth%22%2C%22matcher%22%3A%22%24eq%22%2C%22value%22%3Atrue%7D%7D%5D&verticalKey=healthcare_professionals)

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{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"VideoObject","name":"Reproductive Genetic Testing: Introduction & Overview","thumbnailUrl":"https://cf-images.us-east-1.prod.boltdns.net/v1/static/817826402001/5edc1773-8411-4104-9fa6-daad182ae0d1/d9db7ee7-2b74-4e93-9a50-b2e358938faf/1280x720/match/image.jpg","uploadDate":"2023-08-17T20:45:43.264Z","embedUrl":"https://players.brightcove.net/817826402001/79bcaa57-54d7-453c-9f1f-8ab3ef7b15de/index.html?videoId=6334109400112","description":"An overview of genetic conditions that can occur for a fetus during pregnancy and the testing that can identify many of them. Topics include ultrasound, screening tests, diagnostic tests, and carrier screening.","duration":"PT9M5S","transcript":"[MUSIC PLAYING]\nSPEAKER: This video will review of different genetic conditions\nthat can occur for a fetus during pregnancy\nand the testing that can identify many of them.\nPlease keep in mind that even though we\nare focusing on these conditions,\nthey're unlikely to arise during your pregnancy.\nApproximately 97% of all births result\nin a baby being born with no birth defects.\nOf the remaining 3%, some of those\nare due to genetic causes, while others are not genetic.\nIf you have specific concerns regarding\nhigh risk, positive results, have a family history\nof a genetic condition, or have questions or topics\nyou would like to discuss in more detail,\nplease speak with your medical provider or ask for a referral\nto a genetic counselor.\n\nOur bodies are made of trillions of cells.\nWithin most of our cells we have chromosomes.\nChromosomes are made of long strings of DNA\nwhich contain all of our genes.\nGenes provide the instructions that tell our bodies how\nto grow, form, and function.\nIt is estimated that humans have about 20,000 genes.\nPeople typically have 46 chromosomes\nwhich come in pairs, meaning 23 different chromosomes.\nNumbers 1 through 22 are generally\nthe same in all people.\nThe last pair are the sex chromosomes.\nWhen there are two X chromosomes,\nthat person is typically female.\nWhen there is an X and a Y chromosome,\nthat person is typically male.\nYou can think of a chromosome like a book.\nMost humans have a collection of 46 books.\nThe DNA is all the pages within those books,\nand the genes are the paragraphs on the pages.\n\nA change in someone's genetic information\ncauses a genetic condition.\nThe change can be in the total number of chromosomes,\na small amount of DNA being missing or extra,\nor in just one single gene.\nThinking back to the book analogy,\nthere could be a different number\nof books, a few pages missing or extra,\nsome missing or extra words in a paragraph,\nor misspelled words within a paragraph.\nAny of these could be significant for how\nthe collection of books is read.\nSometimes, just by chance, an egg or a sperm\nmay contain a different number of chromosomes.\nIn our book analogy this would be\nlike a whole extra or missing book.\nA pregnancy from that egg or sperm\nwill have a chromosome condition.\nThere are various chromosome conditions\ndepending on the specific chromosomes involved.\nOne example of a chromosome condition\nis called Down syndrome.\nThe chances for chromosome conditions\nare associated with the age of the egg.\nAs the age of the egg increases, so\ndoes the risk for chromosome conditions.\nAt age 25, the chance for a chromosome condition\nis approximately 1 in 200, or about 0.5%, while at age 40,\nit is about 1 in 50, or about 2%.\nThat also means that at age 40 there\nis a 98% chance that there will not be a chromosome condition.\nIn fact, at any age the greatest chance\nis that there will not be a chromosome condition.\nGenetic conditions caused by a small amount\nof missing or extra DNA are called microdeletions\nand microduplications.\nReferring to our book analogy, this\nwould be like a book having a few missing\nor additional pages.\nAlthough the change to the total amount of DNA is small,\nthis missing or extra DNA contains\nmany genes, which can cause very significant effects.\nThe specific symptoms will vary depending\non the genes involved.\nIn general, these conditions tend to be severe.\nThe overall possibility for a pregnancy\nto have a microdeletion or microduplication\nis between 1% and 2%.\nAnd this chance does not change with age.\n\nMost microdeletion and microduplication syndromes\nare not inherited from either parent.\n\nSingle-gene conditions are caused by changes\nto just one gene.\nRecalling the book analogy one more time,\nthis would be like a word in a paragraph\non a page being misspelled, missing, or repeated,\nmaking it difficult or impossible to understand\nthat paragraph.\nFor some genes, having just one working copy is sufficient,\nand people can carry a change in a gene\nwithout ever knowing or having any symptoms of that condition.\nIt is estimated that two random individuals who are not\nrelated, have between a 1% and 6% chance of being carriers\nfor changes in the same gene.\nWhen two individuals carry changes in the same gene,\nthey have an increased chance to have\na child with that condition.\nFor other genes, just one non-working copy\nwill cause a condition.\nIn this case, the genetic parent has that condition,\nand there is a significantly increased\nchance their children will have that condition as well.\n\nThere are many tests available to provide more information\nduring pregnancy.\nThere are separate videos in this series which will review\neach test in more detail.\nWhile these tests can provide a lot of information,\nkeep in mind that no test or combination of tests\ncan guarantee a healthy pregnancy outcome.\nBut please also keep in mind that most pregnancies have\nno medical conditions regardless of how many tests\nare being performed.\nThere are both screening and diagnostic testing options\navailable during pregnancy.\nScreening tests can tell us the probability\nthat a pregnancy has certain conditions,\nbut will not provide definitive answers.\nScreening tests mostly look for the likelihood\nfor certain chromosome conditions,\nnot for microdeletions, microduplications,\nor single-gene conditions.\nResults are generally categorized as either screen\npositive, when there is a high chance the pregnancy has\na condition, or screen negative, when\nthere is a lower chance that the pregnancy has a condition.\nWith screening tests, there is a possibility\nfor the result to be incorrect.\nScreening tests are performed through a blood\ndraw of the pregnant person with no risk of miscarriage.\nUltrasound is another way to learn more about a pregnancy.\nUltrasounds are performed to confirm someone is pregnant,\nestablish a due date, and check on the anatomy, development,\nand growth of the fetus throughout the pregnancy.\nUltrasound can detect certain birth defects\nand sometimes show differences which increase suspicion\nfor a genetic condition.\nOther ultrasounds may be recommended\ndepending on various pregnancy-related factors.\nUltrasound is non-invasive and does not pose a risk\nfor harming the pregnancy.\n\nDiagnostic tests can tell us definitively\nwhether a pregnancy has specific conditions.\nDiagnostic testing is also significantly more\ncomprehensive than screening and can\ndetect chromosome conditions, microdeletion,\nand microduplication syndromes, and can also\nlook for single-gene conditions if indicated.\nThe results from diagnostic testing\nprovide a yes or no answer, not a probability.\nIf the results are positive for a condition,\nthat is a diagnosis.\nIf the results are negative, that condition\nhas been ruled out.\nDiagnostic tests are performed by doing a more invasive\nprocedure where cells from the placenta or amniotic fluid\nare collected and used for analysis.\nDiagnostic tests involve a procedure-related risk\nfor miscarriage, which is generally\nquoted as between 1 and 455, or about 0.2%, and 1 in 900,\nor about 0.1%, depending on the procedure.\nThis also means that there is about a 99.8% to 99.9% chance\nthat the procedure would not cause a miscarriage.\nOne final category of testing that can be performed\nis called carrier screening.\nThis can be performed on the genetic parents\nto determine if they carry changes in the same gene.\nThis testing can be performed before or during pregnancy.\nIf desired, diagnostic testing can\ndetermine whether the pregnancy has that condition.\nSome pregnancies may also have additional considerations\nregarding screening and diagnostic testing options.\nSome examples of these pregnancies\ninclude multiple gestation pregnancies,\nsuch as twin pregnancies, and pregnancies\nachieved via in vitro fertilization, where\nspecific risks may be elevated.\nWe hope that this introduction to genetic conditions\nand the types of testing has been valuable and informative.\nPlease watch the additional videos\nin this series for more detail about what was reviewed here.\n\nIf you feel it would help to discuss these conditions\nor tests in more detail beyond the scope of these videos,\nplease speak with your medical provider\nor request a referral for genetic counseling.\nWarmest wishes on your pregnancy journey."}
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{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"VideoObject","name":"Reproductive Genetic Testing: Ultrasound","thumbnailUrl":"https://cf-images.us-east-1.prod.boltdns.net/v1/static/817826402001/c1e07da8-a6d5-452d-abee-de4c372d5e62/4aedd8fa-3017-4aa1-b5f5-d4231d9426ae/1280x720/match/image.jpg","uploadDate":"2024-02-26T18:53:07.100Z","embedUrl":"https://players.brightcove.net/817826402001/79bcaa57-54d7-453c-9f1f-8ab3ef7b15de/index.html?videoId=6347688789112","description":"An overview of common ultrasounds performed during pregnancy.","duration":"PT4M3S","transcript":"[MUSIC PLAYING]\nNARRATOR: In this video, we will be discussing what ultrasound is\nand what types of ultrasounds you may have during pregnancy.\nUltrasound uses sound waves to form pictures of what\nis happening inside the body.\nIt is common to undergo multiple ultrasounds during pregnancy.\nUltrasound is used to check many aspects of the pregnancy,\nincluding whether there are any birth defects and the size\nand development of the fetus.\nPlease keep in mind that approximately 97% of all births\nresult in a baby being born with no birth defects.\nWhile ultrasound can detect many birth defects and conditions,\nnot all conditions can be seen on ultrasound,\nand a normal ultrasound cannot guarantee a healthy pregnancy\noutcome.\nThere is no evidence that ultrasound poses a risk when\nused in the medical setting.\nLet's review common ultrasounds that you may\ncomplete during your pregnancy.\nThe first ultrasound during pregnancy\nis often called a viability scan, or dating ultrasound.\nThis is usually performed between 6 and 10\nweeks of pregnancy.\nWith this ultrasound, your provider\ncan usually confirm that you are pregnant,\ncheck that the pregnancy is developing as expected,\nand establish your due date.\nMost pregnant patients will also be\nreferred for an ultrasound in the first trimester between 11\nand 14 weeks, which provides an early check for birth defects.\nThis ultrasound may be called an early anatomy,\nor first trimester anatomy scan.\nAt this stage of pregnancy, it is\npossible to see the main parts of the fetus\nand identify many major birth defects.\nHowever, the pregnancy is still too small\nto see all the details of the anatomy.\nThis scan typically includes a nuchal translucency measurement\nof the fluid in the back of the neck, which,\nif larger than expected, increases\nthe concern for certain genetic conditions or birth defects.\n\nMost pregnant patients will be referred\nfor an ultrasound in the second trimester, around 20 weeks.\nThis ultrasound has many names, including\nanatomy scan, anatomic survey, or detailed or complete\nultrasound.\nBy this stage of the pregnancy, most\nof the main parts of the fetus have formed and are large enough\nto see in detail.\nSo we are able to thoroughly check for birth defects,\nlike heart anomalies.\nOther parts of the pregnancy, including\namniotic fluid, placenta, and uterus, will also be checked.\nThis is typically when the genitalia\nhave developed enough to predict the fetal sex as well.\nPatients who have an increased risk\nfor a pregnancy with a heart defect\nmay be referred for a fetal echocardiogram, or fetal echo,\nfor short, which is a specialized\nultrasound in the second trimester\nthat focuses on the heart.\nSome patients may also have ultrasound\nto check on the pregnancy in the third trimester.\nMost commonly, these ultrasounds are\nto check the growth of the fetus.\nDepending on various factors, there\nmay be other ultrasounds or types of images recommended\nto be taken during a pregnancy.\nIf you have questions about different types of ultrasounds\nand your pregnancy, please speak with your provider.\n\nWe hope that this video has been valuable and informative.\nPlease watch the additional videos\nin this series for more detail about various aspects\nof genetic conditions and pregnancy.\n\nIf you feel it would help to discuss the conditions\nor tests in more detail beyond the scope of these videos,\nplease speak with your medical provider\nor request a referral for genetic counseling.\nWarmest wishes on your pregnancy journey.\n[MUSIC PLAYING]"}
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{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"VideoObject","name":"Reproductive Genetic Testing: Screening Tests","thumbnailUrl":"https://cf-images.us-east-1.prod.boltdns.net/v1/static/817826402001/849948a0-45d8-4320-9d27-eeea83586d37/2c5acd45-b7bb-41b4-87cf-fb5a0caf86a3/1280x720/match/image.jpg","uploadDate":"2025-08-04T21:04:55.269Z","embedUrl":"https://players.brightcove.net/817826402001/79bcaa57-54d7-453c-9f1f-8ab3ef7b15de/index.html?videoId=6376544295112","description":"An overview of common screening tests that are available during pregnancy, including cell-free DNA screening and msAFP testing.","duration":"PT5M6S","transcript":"In this video, we will be discussing\nsome of the different screening tests\navailable during pregnancy.\nScreening tests are optional and are offered to everyone\nregardless of whether the pregnancy is\nconsidered high- or low-risk.\nThese tests are typically performed through a blood\ndraw of the pregnant person and do not increase\nthe risk of miscarriage.\nScreening tests provide the likelihood\nthat a pregnancy has certain conditions.\nUnlike diagnostic testing, screening tests only\nlook for a limited number of conditions,\nthey are not definitive, and there is a possibility\nfor the result to be incorrect.\nPlease keep in mind that no test or combination of tests\ncan guarantee a healthy pregnancy outcome.\nBut please also keep in mind that most pregnancies have\nno genetic conditions regardless of how many tests are performed.\nThe two screening tests that will be covered in this video\nare cell-free DNA screening (also known as NIPT)\nand AFP screening, as well as the possible results\nand next steps.\nUltrasound and carrier screening are also\nconsidered types of screening tests.\nPlease watch the additional videos\nin this series for more detail about each of these.\nOne of the more common screening tests\nyou will be offered during pregnancy\nis called cell-free DNA screening.\nCell-free DNA screening may be referred to by many other names,\nincluding cfDNA, non-invasive prenatal testing (or NIPT),\nand non-invasive prenatal screening (or NIPS).\nEach testing company will have their own brand\nname for this test as well.\nCell-free DNA screening is performed\non a blood sample provided by the pregnant person.\nDuring pregnancy, small fragments\nof DNA from the placenta are present in the pregnant person's\nbloodstream, and cell-free DNA screening\nwill predict whether that amount is within the expected range.\nCell-free DNA screening can screen\nfor the most common chromosome conditions\nthat babies are born with, which are Down\nsyndrome, trisomy 18, trisomy 13, and X and Y chromosome\nvariations.\n\nSome versions of the test may also\ninclude screening for other conditions including\ncertain microdeletions.\nCell-free DNA screening can also predict the sex of the fetus.\nAnother common screening test is called\nAFP screening, which may also be called msAFP screening.\nAFP screening looks for the amount of a protein\ncalled alpha-fetoprotein (or AFP)\npresent in the blood of a pregnant person, which\ntends to be elevated when a pregnancy has certain birth\ndefects like open neural tube defects or abdominal wall\ndefects.\n\nThe two possible results from these screening tests are\n\"screen negative\" and \"screen positive.\"\nScreen negative means that the likelihood\nthat the fetus has any of the conditions included\nin the testing is very low.\nSince screening tests are not definitive,\nthere is a small chance for a false negative result\nwith any screening.\nThis means there is still a small chance\nthat the fetus has one of the conditions included\nin the testing even though the results are screen negative.\nSome patients with low-risk results\nmay still elect diagnostic testing\nfor more definitive answers than screening tests can provide,\nor to test for conditions beyond what\ncan be looked for with the current screening tests.\nScreen positive means that means that the likelihood\nthat the fetus has a condition is increased.\nIn this case, the results will be\nspecific about which condition the fetus\nis screen positive for.\nSince screening tests are not definitive,\nthere is a chance for a false positive result\nwith any screening.\nThis means the fetus may not have any genetic condition\neven though the results are screen positive.\nWe always note that no irreversible actions\nsuch as pregnancy termination should\nbe taken based upon a screen positive result alone.\nWhen results are screen positive,\npatients will be offered the option of follow up\ndiagnostic testing for more definitive answers\nto either diagnose a condition or rule it out.\nWe hope that this video has been valuable and informative.\nPlease watch the additional videos\nin this series for more detail about various aspects\nof genetic conditions and pregnancy.\nIf you feel it would help to discuss the conditions\nor tests in more detail beyond the scope of these videos,\nplease speak with your medical provider\nor request a referral for genetic counseling.\nWarmest wishes on your pregnancy journey!"}
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{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"VideoObject","name":"Reproductive Genetic Testing: Diagnostic Tests","thumbnailUrl":"https://cf-images.us-east-1.prod.boltdns.net/v1/static/817826402001/d4e248b3-68fd-4008-aed8-cbcf50468069/c93f8b01-a341-4d86-b826-4a7fce3e84d0/1280x720/match/image.jpg","uploadDate":"2024-11-22T03:36:22.788Z","embedUrl":"https://players.brightcove.net/817826402001/79bcaa57-54d7-453c-9f1f-8ab3ef7b15de/index.html?videoId=6362762540112","description":"An overview of diagnostic procedures, chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis, that are available during pregnancy and the testing that can be performed on the samples. ","duration":"PT5M45S","transcript":"[MUSIC PLAYING]\nNARRATOR: In this video, we will be discussing\nthe different diagnostic testing options\navailable during pregnancy.\nUnlike screening tests, diagnostic testing\nis a way to get definitive yes-or-no answers\nabout a wide range of conditions.\nDiagnostic tests are more invasive\nthan a blood test and involve a procedure-related risk\nfor miscarriage of about 0.1% to 0.2%,\nmeaning that the overall chance that diagnostic testing would\nnot cause a miscarriage is 99.8% or higher.\nWhile these tests can provide a lot of information,\nkeep in mind that no test or combination of tests\ncan guarantee a healthy pregnancy outcome.\nBut please also keep in mind that most pregnancies have\nno genetic conditions, regardless of how many\ntests are performed.\nDiagnostic testing is optional and offered to everyone,\nregardless of whether they are considered high or low risk.\nSome pursue this testing simply because it is the most\ncomprehensive and accurate.\nOthers consider diagnostic testing\nbecause of an increased risk due to an egg age, test results,\nor ultrasound findings.\nStill, others may have reasons beyond what we have listed here.\nDiagnostic testing can detect chromosome conditions like Down\nsyndrome, microdeletion and microduplication syndromes like\n22q11.2 deletion syndrome, and can look for single-gene\nconditions like cystic fibrosis, if indicated.\nThe results from diagnostic testing\neither provide a diagnosis or rule out a condition,\nrather than giving a probability.\nIf the diagnostic testing reveals a diagnosis,\nyour medical provider will discuss\noptions for that pregnancy, including\ncontinuing the pregnancy, consideration\nof any possible treatments, adoption, and pregnancy\ntermination.\nThere is no correct decision for what to do after diagnosis.\nIt is a personal choice for you and your family.\nTwo main diagnostic tests are available during pregnancy.\nOne is called chorionic villus sampling, also called CVS.\nAnd the other is called amniocentesis, or amnio,\nfor short.\nTypically, patients only do CVS or amniocentesis, not both.\nCVS involves taking a small sample\nof the placenta, which is made of cells from the pregnancy.\nUsing ultrasound as a guide, a specially trained doctor\nwill obtain a sample of the placenta.\nDepending on where the placenta is located in the uterus,\nthe doctor will either use a catheter passing\nthrough the cervix or insert a needle through the abdomen.\n\nThis placenta sample is then sent to a lab for testing.\nThe risk for miscarriage from the CVS procedure\nis approximately 1 in 455, or about 0.2%.\nWith CVS, there is also a 1% to 2%\nrisk for an ambiguous result, usually caused by the placenta\nnot having the same chromosomes as the fetus,\na phenomenon called confined placental mosaicism.\nIn these cases, amniocentesis is recommended\nto clarify the results.\nCVS is typically performed between 10 and 14\nweeks of pregnancy.\nAmniocentesis involves taking a small sample\nof amniotic fluid, which contains cells that have\ncome directly from the fetus.\nUsing ultrasound as a guide, a specially trained doctor\nwill insert a needle through the abdomen.\nThe needle does not actually touch the fetus.\nIt is only inserted as far as is needed to get the fluid.\nThis fluid is then sent to the lab for testing.\nThe risk for miscarriage from the amniocentesis procedure\nis approximately 1 in 900, or about 0.1%.\nAmniocentesis is typically performed between 16 and 22\nweeks of pregnancy.\nOne possible outcome of diagnostic testing\nis for the results to come back negative.\nNegative results mean that no mutations, variants, or changes\nwere found in the chromosome or genes analyzed.\nOr in other words, all of the conditions included in the test\nhave now been ruled out.\nIt is also possible to receive positive results, which\nmeans that a mutation, variant, or change was\nfound in the chromosomes or genes for the pregnancy.\nWhen positive, the results will be\nspecific about the condition that was found.\nA positive result on a diagnostic test\nis a diagnosis for that condition.\nA third type of result can occasionally come up as well.\nThis result is called a variant of uncertain significance,\nor a VUS.\nIt is an uncertain result because there\nwas a mutation, variant, or change found,\nbut there is not enough data to determine\nif this should be placed in the positive or negative category.\nWe hope that this video has been valuable and informative.\nPlease watch the additional videos\nin this series for more detail about various aspects\nof genetic conditions and pregnancy.\nIf you feel it would help to discuss the conditions\nor tests in more detail beyond the scope of these videos,\nplease speak with your medical provider,\nor request a referral for genetic counseling.\n\nWarmest wishes on your pregnancy journey.\n[MUSIC PLAYING]"}
```

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{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"VideoObject","name":"Reproductive Genetic Testing: Carrier Screening","thumbnailUrl":"https://cf-images.us-east-1.prod.boltdns.net/v1/jit/817826402001/96f538ed-b1d2-4e30-a9bb-94f8ed01128f/main/1280x720/4m3s797ms/match/image.jpg","uploadDate":"2024-11-22T03:41:02.923Z","embedUrl":"https://players.brightcove.net/817826402001/79bcaa57-54d7-453c-9f1f-8ab3ef7b15de/index.html?videoId=6365028739112","description":"An overview of carrier screening for genetic conditions that is available before or during pregnancy, as well as the inheritance patterns that these conditions follow. ","duration":"PT8M8S","transcript":"[MUSIC PLAYING]\nSPEAKER: This video will discuss carrier screening, which\nis genetic testing performed on individuals to determine\nif they are carriers for certain conditions.\nMost people are carriers for multiple conditions,\nand being a carrier usually will not cause any health concerns\nfor that person.\nA pregnancy might be at increased risk\nbased upon the carrier screening results\nin certain circumstances, which some people may find\nvaluable to know ahead of time.\nThis testing is separate from other tests\none may do in pregnancy, such as those\nthat look for Down syndrome or other chromosome conditions.\nPlease keep in mind that approximately 97% of all births\nresult in a baby being born with no birth defects.\nWhile carrier screening can detect many conditions,\nnot all conditions can be screened for, and normal results\ncannot guarantee a healthy pregnancy outcome.\nBefore we discuss what it means to be a carrier,\nlet's review some basics about how genetics and our genes\nare passed on.\nOne note, we will be using the term genetic parent\nin this video, which refers to the person who\ncontributed the egg or sperm to that pregnancy.\nPeople typically have 46 chromosomes,\nwhich come in pairs, meaning 23 different chromosomes.\nNumbers 1 through 22 are generally\nthe same in all people.\nThe last pair are the sex chromosomes.\nWhen there are two X chromosomes,\nthat person is typically female.\nWhen there is an X and a Y chromosome,\nthat person is typically male.\nChromosomes are made of long strings of DNA\nwhich contain all of our genes.\nHumans have about 20,000 genes which provide the instructions\nthat tells our body how to grow, form, and function.\nIn most cases, an individual has two copies\nof each gene, one on each chromosome.\nUsually, both copies of that gene are functional,\nbut sometimes a person may be born with a change\nto a gene which makes that copy of the gene not work.\nThis can be inherited in different ways.\nThree types of inheritance that we will review\nare autosomal recessive inheritance,\nautosomal dominant inheritance, and X-linked inheritance.\nIn autosomal recessive inheritance,\na person with one nonworking copy of a gene\nis called a carrier.\nWhen both genetic parents are carriers for the same condition,\neach pregnancy from those parents would have a 1 in 4,\nor 25%, chance to inherit no working copies of the gene\nand therefore be affected with that condition.\nThat also means that there is a 3 and 4, or 75%, chance\nto not have an affected pregnancy each time.\nAutosomal recessive conditions can\noccur when neither family has any known\nhistory of the condition.\nIt is estimated that two random individuals who are not related\nhave between a 1% and 6% chance of being carriers\nfor changes in the same gene.\nIn autosomal dominant inheritance,\na person with one nonworking copy of a gene\nhas that condition.\nEach pregnancy from that individual would have 1 in 2,\nor 50%, chance of inheriting the condition.\nThese conditions often run in families.\nBut new gene changes can also happen just by chance,\nparticularly when the sperm is from an older person.\nIn X-linked inheritance, the genes we are referring to\nare located on the X chromosome.\nSomeone with two X chromosomes who\nhas one nonworking copy of the gene\nis called a carrier, while someone with one X and one Y\nchromosome who has one nonworking copy of the gene\nhas the condition.\nCarriers of X-linked conditions have a 1 in 4, or 25%, chance\nto have an affected pregnancy.\nThat also means that there is a 3 in 4, or 75%, chance\nto not have an affected pregnancy each time.\nX-linked conditions can occur when\nneither family has any known history of the condition.\nThe types of conditions included in carrier screening\ncan result in severe childhood onset disease.\nSome of these conditions are treatable,\nwhile others will cause untreatable severe illness\nor even a shortened lifespan.\nIt is possible to do carrier screening\nto target just one or a few specific conditions,\nand there is also an option to test for hundreds of conditions\nall at the same time through testing called expanded carrier\nscreening.\nExpanded carrier screening includes\nmany autosomal recessive conditions,\nsome X-linked conditions, and sometimes autosomal\ndominant conditions as well.\nCarrier screening is performed on a blood or saliva\nsample from one or both of the genetic parents.\nCarrier screening can be done before or during pregnancy.\nThe possible results from carrier screening\nare negative, positive, and positive at risk for symptoms.\nA negative result means you were not\nfound to be a carrier for the conditions that were looked at.\nIt is not possible with carrier screening\nto absolutely rule out being a carrier.\nHowever, with a negative result, the chance\nthat you are a carrier for that condition\nhas been significantly reduced.\nA positive result means that you were\nidentified to be a carrier for a condition.\nWhen results are positive, the report\nwill be specific about the condition or conditions.\nIf you were found to be a carrier,\nyour medical provider will discuss\nthe result and the next steps with you in more detail.\nThe final possible result is called positive at risk\nfor symptoms.\nCarrier screening may occasionally\nidentify that the person being tested\nis both a carrier for a specific condition\nand could potentially develop symptoms themselves.\nIf you receive this result, your medical provider\nwill discuss the results and next step with you\nin more detail.\nWhen doing carrier screening for multiple conditions,\nsomeone may receive positive results\nfor some conditions and then negative results\nfor the remaining conditions.\nIf you receive positive or positive\nat risk for symptoms results, we encourage\nyou to share this information with your family members\ndue to their increased chance to have the same result.\nWhen carrier screening has identified an increased\nreproductive risk, the available options\nwill depend on whether or not someone is already pregnant.\nDuring pregnancy, diagnostic testing\ncan be performed to determine whether the pregnancy is\naffected with the condition.\nIf the diagnostic testing reveals a diagnosis,\nyour medical provider will discuss the options\nfor that pregnancy, including continuing\nthe pregnancy, consideration of any possible treatments,\nadoption, and pregnancy termination.\nThere is no correct decision for what to do after diagnosis.\nIt is a personal choice for you and your family.\nBefore pregnancy, patients can consider whether or not\nto do IVF with PGT-M to help select an embryo to transfer\ninto the uterus.\nIVF is where an egg is fertilized by sperm in a lab\nand an embryo is formed.\nPGT-M is where an embryo is tested for a specific condition\nor conditions.\n\nWe hope that this video has been valuable and informative.\nPlease watch the additional videos\nin this series for more detail about various aspects\nof genetic conditions and pregnancy.\n\nIf you feel it would help to discuss the condition\nor test in more detail beyond the scope of these videos,\nplease speak with your medical provider\nor request a referral for genetic counseling.\nWarmest wishes on your pregnancy journey.\n[MUSIC PLAYING]"}
```

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{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"VideoObject","name":"Reproductive Genetic Testing: Genetic Counseling","thumbnailUrl":"https://cf-images.us-east-1.prod.boltdns.net/v1/static/817826402001/d00c16e2-f50c-4e85-ad28-2380e3bc2909/8f4a3bf8-8945-4eaa-af07-66df2921cd97/1280x720/match/image.jpg","uploadDate":"2025-01-03T19:44:57.661Z","embedUrl":"https://players.brightcove.net/817826402001/79bcaa57-54d7-453c-9f1f-8ab3ef7b15de/index.html?videoId=6366662384112","description":"An overview of reproductive genetic counseling, including what to expect from and how to prepare for an appointment. ","duration":"PT4M9S","transcript":"[MUSIC PLAYING]\n\nIn this video, we'll give an overview of genetic counseling\nand why someone might wish to pursue it.\nFor the scope of this video, we will\nbe discussing prenatal and preconception\ngenetic counseling, where the focus is\non reproductive information and pregnancy.\nHowever, there are numerous other types\nof genetic counseling appointments that\nmay be appropriate for you or someone you know,\nincluding oncology, pediatrics, neurology, and cardiology.\nGenetic counselors are medical providers\nwho have extensive training regarding genetic testing\nand genetic conditions.\nThey also understand the complicated emotions\nthat may come up when discussing genetic testing\nand possible genetic conditions.\nGenetic counseling is not psychological therapy\nand does not take the place of meeting with the therapist.\nWhile genetic counselors will be discussing genetics and biology,\nyou do not need to have any specialized background\nto follow along with these concepts.\nGenetic counselors discuss complicated concepts\nin ways that are easy for anyone to understand.\nIn the appointment, your genetic counselor\nwill give an overview of certain genetic conditions,\ndiscuss the reproductive chances for genetic conditions,\nreview the pros and cons of different testing options,\nwork with you to find the testing path that makes the most\nsense for your situation, order and interpret\ngenetic test results, and collect a medical family history\nand assess your reproductive chances for these conditions.\nThere are many reasons why someone\nmay wish to have a reproductive genetic counseling appointment.\nIt might be for no other reason than to have\na more in-depth conversation about the different available\ngenetic testing options.\nOther reasons include a desire to pursue\none or multiple genetic tests, wanting\nto discuss how medical conditions and family\nmembers may impact someone's reproductive risks,\nor because test results or an ultrasound\nrevealed an increased risk for a genetic condition.\nReproductive genetic counseling can\noccur before someone is pregnant or during pregnancy.\nYour genetic counselor will tailor your appointment\nfor what is appropriate for you, as some tests can only\nbe done during pregnancy, while others can be done at any time.\nMost patients will only have one genetic counseling appointment\nper pregnancy.\nBut some patients may see a genetic counselor\na second or third time if new test results become\navailable which warrant further discussion or follow up.\nGenetic counseling appointments are typically\nscheduled for one hour.\nTo prepare for your genetic counseling appointment,\nyou and your partner may wish to gather information\nabout medical conditions in family members or your egg\nor sperm donor's family.\nIf someone has been diagnosed with a genetic condition,\nobtain as much specific information\nas you can about the condition, including\nwhich relative or relatives have the medical condition,\nthe specific name of the medical condition, at what age\nthey were diagnosed, and if any genetic testing has been\nperformed in any relatives.\nIf genetic testing was performed,\nobtain copies of the genetic testing results,\nif possible, to ensure your genetic counselor\ncan give you accurate information about that condition\nand the risks for you or your pregnancy.\nWe hope that this video has been valuable and informative.\nPlease watch the additional videos\nin this series for more detail about various aspects\nof genetic conditions and pregnancy.\nIf you feel it would help to discuss the conditions\nor test in more detail beyond the scope of these videos,\nplease speak with your medical provider\nor request a referral for genetic counseling.\nWarmest wishes on your pregnancy journey."}
```