Obstetrics & Gynecology
Obstetrics is the medical specialty that cares for women in pregnancy, childbirth, and shortly after delivery. Gynecology takes care of all of the other unique healthcare needs of women. Many doctors practice both (abbreviated Ob/Gyn) so they can care for women at all stages.
Genetics plays a particularly important role in obstetrics because genetic information can be used to predict if a pregnancy will have certain genetic conditions. In recent years, genetic testing has become good enough that almost all couples are offered some kind of genetic testing. This information is desired by some couples, and not by others.
The most common kind of testing is called carrier screening. Carrier screening finds couples who both carry a genetic change and have a higher chance to have a child with a serious genetic condition. Cystic fibrosis carrier screening is offered to most couples now regardless of their ancestry or family history. Some experts think all couples should also consider spinal muscular atrophy carrier screening. Other kinds of carrier screening usually depend on ancestry or family history.
Genetic testing may also be used to predict your risk for conditions like abnormal blood clots, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and certain other diseases. Information is available here about some of the most common carrier screening and other genetic tests used in obstetrics and gynecology. Other genetic tests could be appropriate for you based on your personal or family history. If you have any concerns, you should talk to your doctor. You can find an El Camino Genomic Medicine Institute doctor with expertise in obstetrics and gynecology here.
Array CGH for Developmental Abnormalities
Ashkenazi Jewish Carrier Screening
Chromosome Analysis and Reproductive Health
Cystic Fibrosis Carrier Screening
El Camino GMI providers can access professional information here (login required).
