If you've had genetic counseling and/or are a Dr. Kofinas patient

Dr. Kofinas's office set me up with a genetic counseling session via telephone for tonight at 7:30pm. I'm a little nervous about it b/c the way i see it I worry enough about this pregnancy and i kind of think this session will put even more ideas into my head...know what I mean? Is it really necessary for me to have this genetic counseling session? Thankfully all my tests came back really good but they said based on my age I should talk to the genetic counselor. Thoughts?

Re: If you've had genetic counseling and/or are a Dr. Kofinas patient

I went through this.

Honestly they don't do too much, just ask some basic questions about family history, etc. If you aren't getting an amnio or would not terminate if a bad result was gotten, there really is no point IMO.

Re: If you've had genetic counseling and/or are a Dr. Kofinas patient

I just saw genetic couseling and all I can tell you from our experience, call your insurance company, and make sure it's covered. We had a nightmare a few months ago when they did genetic testing from us. The doc sent us both for "bloodwork"...that's ALL he said, and we both had tons of blood. That was April of '09 and in September, hubby and I got a bill for $980 for "genetic testing". Needless to say, I was furious because I knew ahead of time that my insurance company did not cover genetic testing. I am still fighting with my insurance company, doctor who sent me, and the place that is billing me! Please, just make sure you know in advance so this doesn't happen to you!

Re: If you've had genetic counseling and/or are a Dr. Kofinas patient

hi Lisa -

i had to see a genetic counselor, but for a specific test reason. I tested positive for Fragile X syndrome....and based on that - i had to see someone.

i will be honest, when i got the call about the test results, i felt like my life was OVER....i have never cried that hard in my life and did for about a week until the appointment, but after the appointment, i felt so much better. the counselor 'dumbed' all the genetics stuff down for dave & i and made us feel comfortable with what she was telling us. after the appointment, we both felt educated and relieved.

i don't know how it will go for you, as you didn't test positive for something specific, but just get it into your head that it will be a learning experience...and take it that way!

Re: If you've had genetic counseling and/or are a Dr. Kofinas patient

I had genetic counseling before I became a Kofinas patient so they did not require me to repeat it with them. I really would have the appointment as I found it to be really helpful. I think they require it because ethically they have to make sure that you are informed.