Genetic screening in patients of reproductive age - How do you advise prospective parents who want to know specific risks?

At times, determining the actual genetic condition occurring in a family ca n be very difficult. The most important steps in deciding when testing is a ppropriate are the patient's age and family history, with special attention to ethnic background. By identifying risk factors before pregnancy, prospe ctive parents can be fully informed about their specific risk of having a c hild with a genetic condition. Furthermore, the pros and cons of invasive p renatal diagnostic procedures often can be fully discussed well in advance of an actual pregnancy Clinical geneticists and generic counselors can prov ide valuable assistance when difficult questions or problems arise.