What Is Genetic Counselling?
Genetic counselling is a one-to-one consultation that helps patients better understand their genetic health and the risk of passing a genetic disorder on to their children. It can also help to identify the investigations and fertility treatments which can help overcome that risk.
Our genetic counsellor is able to recommend some of the most advanced genetic investigations available, ensuring everyone is given the opportunity to create a healthy family, without exception.
Our Genetic Counsellor
She started her career in cancer genetics research projects before moving into clinical work.
• From 1999, Sara worked with cancer families as well as families affected by a wide range of other genetic conditions.
• From 2005 – 2009, she led the development of a carrier screening programme for recessive disorders in the UK Jewish population. Concurrently, she joined the Assisted Conception Unit at Guy’s Hospital to provide PGD for patients with a range of genetic disorders.
• In 2009, Sara became a Principal Genetic Counsellor at Guy’s.
Sara joined CRGH in 2017, and leads on the genetics aspects of the PGD service, genetic counselling, and CarrierMatch™ screening, and is part of the clinical team further developing the genetics programme at the centre.
In addition, Sara is the elected chair of the AGNC, the national body which represents genetic counsellors in the UK and Ireland. The AGNC provides representation, education and support to genetic counsellors. In her role as chair, Sara aims to champion the integration of genetic counsellors into mainstream settings, as genomic testing is rolled out across all medical specialties.
Who should consider Genetic Counselling?
Patients consider genetic counselling for lots of different reasons. These include those with a known genetic condition themselves or in their family, those who already have a child with a genetic condition or those who have lost one or more pregnancies in the past.
What does genetic counselling involve?
At CRGH, we believe that everybody should have the opportunity to create a healthy family. Private genetic counselling in the UK is the best way to gain a stronger understanding of how your genetic health looks and what investigations or treatments can help you.
In your initial appointment, your genetic counsellor will ask you about your personal and family medical history, and review any relevant medical records or testing that has already been undertaken. They will then recommend either a bespoke plan of investigation or a treatment plan.
Once any investigations have been arranged and carried out, your genetic counsellor will discuss the results with you and put together a treatment plan to maximise your chances of building a healthy family.
Our Outstanding Success Rates
PGS/PGT-A Live Birth Rates, Per Embryo Transfer, 2020
Live Birth Rate per embryo transferred in under 35s
2022
50.8%
Live Birth Rate per embryo transferred all ages average
2022
49.8%
How can I access private genetic counselling in the UK?
At CRGH, almost every treatment journey begins with an initial consultation. You will be offered an hour-long video appointment with a consultant of your choice, who will assess your previous medical and fertility history, as well as your goals for treatment. Having taken a detailed medical history, your consultant will help you understand the treatment options which are available and answer any questions you might have.
