Genetic conditions can impact families in many ways, influencing health outcomes across generations. At Fernandez Hospital, our Genetic Counselling Team provides expert guidance to help individuals and families understand their genetic risks and make informed decisions, especially when planning a pregnancy.
For couples and individuals looking to conceive, genetic counselling can help assess risks and provide necessary guidance in cases such as:
Previous child with a chromosomal, metabolic, or single-gene disorder
Family history of genetic disorders
Consanguineous (within-family) marriage
Advanced maternal and paternal age
Recurrent pregnancy losses
Previous neonatal and infantile deaths
Antenatal (During Pregnancy) Counselling
Expecting mothers are offered genetic counselling when:
Serum screening tests (First Trimester Screening/Quadruple Screening) indicate a high risk for Trisomy 21, 18, or 13
Fetal anomalies are detected in an ultrasound
Early-onset fetal growth restriction is diagnosed
Index Child Workup
For children with suspected genetic conditions, our team provides assessments and diagnostic guidance for:
Multiple congenital anomalies
Arthrogryposis or congenital contractures
Suspected inborn errors of metabolism
Neuromuscular disorders or floppy infant syndrome
Seizures with encephalopathy
Disorders of sex development
Developmental delay and intellectual disability
Regression of attained milestones
Autism spectrum disorder
Short stature or suspected skeletal dysplasia
Empowering Families with Knowledge
Our multidisciplinary genetic team works closely with obstetricians, paediatricians, and specialists to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Whether you're planning for a baby, expecting, or seeking answers for your child, genetic counselling at Fernandez Hospital provides clarity, support, and informed decision-making for you and your family.
Early intervention makes all the difference! For appointments, call 1800 419 1397 today.
Our Specialists
Dr V Madhavi
MBBS, Fellowship In Clinical Genetics and Genetic Counseling
Genetic counselling helps individuals and families understand the risk of inherited conditions. It is recommended for couples planning a pregnancy, expectant mothers with abnormal screening results, or families with a history of genetic disorders.
Pre-pregnancy counselling is advised if:
You or your partner have a family history of genetic disorders.
You previously had a child with a genetic condition.
You are in a consanguineous marriage (married within the family).
Your screening tests show high risk for conditions like Trisomy 21, 18, or 13.
An ultrasound detects fetal anomalies.
There is early-onset fetal growth restriction.
Yes. If your child has developmental delays, seizures, autism spectrum disorder, or physical anomalies, our genetic team can assess, diagnose, and guide the next steps.
Our multidisciplinary team collaborates with obstetricians, paediatricians, and specialists to ensure accurate diagnosis, empathetic counselling, and personalised care.
Equitable, respectful and evidence-based care for women and children since 1948
