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When planning a family, one of the most important steps prospective parents can take is to understand their risk of passing on genetic conditions. For families with a known history of birth defects, this concern becomes even more critical. Genetic counseling offers a personalized, science-based approach to assessing risk, understanding inheritance patterns, and guiding families through reproductive decisions. This process is especially helpful for those who have experienced birth defects in past pregnancies, have close relatives with genetic conditions, or belong to ethnic groups with increased carrier rates for certain disorders. […]

Pregnancy length is often talked about as a set number, around 40 weeks, but in reality, it’s a range that varies from one mother to another. One fascinating factor that can influence gestational age is how many babies a woman is carrying. Expecting twins, triplets, or more can often shorten the duration of pregnancy, with most multiple births arriving weeks earlier than a typical single-baby pregnancy. This difference isn’t simply a matter of chance; it’s rooted in the body’s natural adaptations and the physical demands of carrying more than one baby. […]

Expecting twins or triplets often brings a mix of surprise and concern for many families. While multiple births were once rare, advances in fertility treatments and the growing use of assisted reproductive technologies have increased their frequency. Whether a pregnancy occurs naturally or with medical help, carrying more than one baby comes with unique medical challenges and emotional considerations. […]

Twins are a fascinating part of pregnancy, and understanding how they form can shed light on the medical care needed during this special journey. Whether you’re expecting twins or just curious, knowing the difference between identical and fraternal twins matters more than most realize. The type of twins a mother is carrying can influence everything from medical risks to delivery planning. […]

Bringing new life into the world through in vitro fertilization (IVF) offers hope to many couples struggling with infertility. While IVF has helped millions achieve parenthood, it also comes with certain risks that expecting parents should understand. Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF may increase the chances of complications compared to natural conception. This does not mean that IVF pregnancies are inherently unsafe, but there are factors that require closer attention from both patients and healthcare providers. […]

Pregnancy is a time of immense change, and proper nutrition is essential for both mother and baby. When a pregnancy is classified as high-risk, the role of nutrition becomes even more critical. High-risk pregnancies may arise due to maternal age, preexisting health conditions, multiple gestations, or complications such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. Eating the right foods can help manage these risks and support a healthy pregnancy. Women experiencing a high-risk pregnancy in Rockville, MD should pay close attention to their diet, as it can impact their overall well-being and the baby’s development. […]

Does diabetes run in the family? Some risks to prevent diabetes are more in your control than others. […]

Genetic counselors are certified healthcare providers who help families understand and use information regarding genetic conditions. Conversations are personalized for each patient based on their specific goals and questions, their family history, and the risks, benefits, and limitations of different genetic screens and tests. Genetic counselors also assist families with a genetic diagnosis connect with the appropriate providers for both medical care and social support. […]

Cancer is a serious disease that can have a profound impact on a pregnant individual and their developing baby. Cancer treatment during an ongoing pregnancy is available in many, but not all, cases. It’s important to work with a team of healthcare providers who are experienced in caring for pregnant individuals with cancer. These providers can help you understand the risks and benefits of various treatment options and make the best decisions for you and your pregnancy. […]

Expectant and new parents have a lot on their plates: managing all of the changes in their bodies as their new babies grow, handling all of the surprises that pregnancy sometimes brings, becoming physically and emotionally ready for the birth as well as caring for a newborn and herself after giving birth. Sometimes parents-to-be also have other challenges to face that are not frequently discussed or addressed like substance use during or after pregnancy. But expectant parents need to hear that there is no shame in seeking care for pregnancy after or during known substance exposure. […]