Does a clinical genetics perform pre-marital screening?

Pre-marital screening may include health-history review, genetic counselling, and laboratory tests chosen according to personal or family history and local requirements. A clinical genetics team helps clarify what a result says, what it cannot predict, and whether another relative or specialist should be involved. Screening can identify carrier status for an inherited condition even when a person feels well. A finding does not automatically mean that either partner has an illness; it may instead guide further counselling and reproductive planning.

Arrange an appointment before testing if possible, so there is time to collect both family histories and discuss the purpose of screening. Bring previous reports, known diagnoses in relatives, and details of any consanguinity in the family. Ask whether both partners should attend, which samples are needed, when results are expected, and whether confirmatory testing or specialist counselling could follow. The clinical genetics team can also explain options if the results affect plans for pregnancy.

Seek clinical genetics advice promptly if either partner has a known inherited condition, repeated unexplained pregnancy loss, a child with a developmental or congenital condition, or several relatives with the same diagnosis. These details can change which tests and counselling are appropriate. If you are already pregnant, tell the clinician early, because the timing and purpose of genetic assessment may differ from pre-marital planning.

Which screening tests fit our family histories? How will results be shared and explained? What would a carrier finding mean for future children? Would you recommend testing relatives or referral to another specialist?