MedBlog

5 things to know about direct-to-consumer genetic testing

Direct-to-consumer genetic testing offers convenient insights into ancestry and health risks, but it's crucial to understand its limitations. Learn about the differences between DTC and clinical genetic testing, and why consulting a genetic counselor can be beneficial.

Heather Fisher, M.S. / Kristi Tu, CGC

June 18, 2025

3 tips to get the most value from pre-pregnancy genetic testing

A detailed family health history can help your pregnancy care team assess the risk of passing on an inherited condition. Find out what genetic counselors say.

Dana Becker, M.S.

May 30, 2025

Tips to have a healthy pregnancy after 35

Pregnancy after 35 can pose some unique challenges for mother and baby, but there are steps to take that can reduce the risks.

Ashley Zink, M.D.

May 13, 2025

Can genetic testing explain the cause of recurrent miscarriages?

Half of all miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities. UT Southwestern discusses when genetic testing might be valuable after a miscarriage.

Leen Al-Hafez, M.D. / Heather Fisher, M.S.

February 19, 2025

5 myths about pregnancy-related genetic testing and counseling

Genetic counseling can help provide clarity before, during, and after pregnancy, but there are some myths about what it can and can’t tell patients. A UT Southwestern expert separates myths from reality.

Heather Fisher, M.S.

January 7, 2025

HELLP and heredity collide in a remarkably rare pregnancy journey

A normal pregnancy takes a turn at 32 weeks with two rare conditions that imperil both mother and baby.

December 19, 2024

The ABCs of hemoglobin disorders and pregnancy

Explore the ABCs of hemoglobin disorders – alpha thalassemia, beta thalassemia, hemoglobin C, and sickle cell disease – and what pregnant people should know.

Ashley Zink, M.D.

November 26, 2024

Can you test for autism during pregnancy? What you need to know

Genetic testing for autism during pregnancy isn't conclusive for autism since no single gene causes the condition. However, certain genetic conditions linked to autism can be identified.

Ashley Zink, M.D. / Heather Fisher, M.S.

October 30, 2024

Should you test for MTHFR gene mutation while pregnant or after miscarriage?

Uncover the facts about the MTHFR gene mutation and its myths. Find out why it’s not linked to miscarriage and how folate supports a healthy pregnancy.

Ashley Zink, M.D. / Heather Fisher, M.S.

October 22, 2024

What does it mean to be a carrier for fragile X syndrome?

Learn what it means to be a carrier for fragile X syndrome, the genetic risks, and how to seek genetic counseling to support your family’s health.

Ashley Zink, M.D. / Heather Fisher, M.S.

October 15, 2024

Is giving birth to twins genetic? Well, that depends

Is having twins genetic? Our expert Ob/Gyn genetic counselors tell you everything you need to know about the surprising genetics of twins.

Heather Fisher, M.S. / Dana Becker, M.S.

October 8, 2024

Is genetic screening recommended during pregnancy if you’ve had IVF?

Even if you get preimplantation genetic testing with IVF, pregnancy is a blank slate. Learn why you might still want genetic screening during pregnancy.

Ashley Zink, M.D. / Heather Fisher, M.S.

February 20, 2024

First postpartum depression pill approved by FDA: What to know

The FDA approved the first ever pill to specifically treat postpartum depression. Zuranolone is taken once a day for two weeks, and studies show it can begin easing depression symptoms after only three days.

Meitra Doty, M.D.

September 12, 2023

What is eclampsia, and how is it different from preeclampsia?

Eclampsia is a severe form of preeclampsia. It’s a rare but serious condition in which high blood pressure leads to seizures during pregnancy.

Jamie Morgan, M.D.

July 11, 2023

Amniocentesis and CVS: FAQs about the prenatal diagnostic duo

Chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis provide definitive answers about a baby’s genetics before birth. Learn about these safe, quick procedures.

Leen Al-Hafez, M.D. / Heather Fisher, M.S.

July 5, 2023