Genetic Screening and Counseling

If you are concerned about passing a genetic disease or disorder onto your children, OB/GYN and maternal-fetal medicine specialist Sasha Davidson, MD, FACOG, can help identify what diseases you may be at risk of transmitting to your baby. Dr. Davidson provides genetic screening and counseling at Signature Perinatal Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. If you or your obstetrician think genetic screening may be helpful, do not hesitate to call Signature Perinatal Center to book an appointment today.

What is genetic counseling? 

There are many different prenatal testing available to screen your genetic health and that of your unborn baby during pregnancy. Genetic tests provide information on the likelihood that your children will inherit a genetic disease or disorder from you or your partner.

With a commitment to science-backed maternal-fetal medicine, Dr. Davidson offers genetic screening and counseling services at Signature Perinatal Center. Depending on your needs, genetic counseling may involve:

·      Reviewing your personal and family medical history

·      Ordering genetic tests as necessary

·      Evaluating and discussing the results of genetic screening tests

·      Advising you on the best steps to take for optimal health for you and your baby

Genetic testing involves analyzing a small sample of blood, amniotic fluid or placental tissueto identify whether you, your partner, or your developing baby carry genes for inherited genetic health problems.

What health problems can I pass along to my child? 

At Signature Perinatal Center, Dr. Davidson specializes in helping women who are at risk of passing an inherited or genetic health problem to their baby. Common genetic abnormalities screened for include:

·      Down syndrome (trisomy 21)

·      Sickle-cell anemia

·      Tay-Sachs disease

·      Spina bifida and other neural tube defects

·      Cystic fibrosis

·      Spinal Muscular Atrophy

·      Thalassemia

Dr. Davidson analyzes the results of your genetic tests and then explains your next steps in a nurturing, compassionate manner. 

Why should I seek genetic counseling? 

There are many reasons for scheduling a genetic counseling visit. Your obstetrician may refer you to Dr. Davidson if one of your prenatal screening tests yielded an abnormal result. They may also recommend genetic counseling if you have factors for a high-risk pregnancy such as: 

  • ·      Advanced maternal age (over 35 years old)

    ·      History of two or more miscarriages or stillbirths

    ·      Abnormal growth of your baby

    ·      Abnormal finding on your ultrasound

    ·      Either parent has an inherited disease

    ·      Either parent has a family history of inherited disorders

    ·      Either parent already has a child with a genetic disorder

    ·      Either parent was exposed to harmful medicines, drugs, or other substances

 No matter what your reasons are, Dr. Davidson provides you with the same gentle guidance she would give to her own family.

 Call to make an appointment today