I am 9 weeks pregnant and had my first ultrasound at 7 and a half weeks in which I was told everything looked great.
2 days ago I met with my physician for the first time. She took blood, gave me a pap, another ultrasound, checked my cervix and I also got a flu shot.
She said the next step is for me to see a genetic counsellor. I researched what happens and the purpose and it seems that it is something offered to women with a higher risk of problems?
So my question is… should I be worried they have seen something to be concerned about that they are not telling me? Or is this a standard process in the US?
Thanks in advance
It probably depends on the doctor, but I think it is standard if you are over 35, have a family history of some condition, if the doctor sees something concerning in other testing, or if you have some ethnic background that predisposes you to certain genetic disorders (for instance, if you and your partner are Ashkenazi, you would have a greater risk of being a carrier for [name_u]Tay[/name_u]-Sachs.)
I would not worry about the testing, though. If you are concerned, ask your doctor why she is ordering it. She may just do it for everyone. I know some women who have opted to get it just because it is the earliest way to find out the sex of the baby.
I wouldn’t worry. I was offered genetic counseling at age 25 with no family history or other risk factors. I think it can be common practice. You could always call and ask your doctor if you are concerned.