Preconception›Genetic counselling
Genetic counselling
If a genetic condition runs in your family, or a test or scan raises a question, genetic counselling can help you understand what it means for you and your baby.
Last reviewed May 2026 by Dr Sarah Koffmann
What is genetic counselling?
Genetic counselling helps you understand genetic conditions, how they are inherited, and what testing and options are available. A genetic counsellor or specialist talks through your family and medical history and explains what any results might mean, so you can make the decisions that are right for you.
When it can help
It may be useful if there is a genetic condition in your family, if you have had a child or pregnancy affected by one, if you and your partner are blood relatives, if you are from a background where certain conditions are more common, or if a carrier screening test or an ultrasound has raised a question.
Reproductive carrier screening
Reproductive carrier screening is now offered to everyone planning a pregnancy or in early pregnancy, not just those with a family history. It checks whether you carry a gene change for certain serious inherited conditions. Medicare covers screening for cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy and fragile X syndrome, so for most women it is free, and it is a once-in-a-lifetime test.
Your GP can arrange it, ideally before or in the early weeks of pregnancy. If the results show that you, or you and your partner, are carriers, genetic counselling can help you understand what this means and what your options are.
Genetic counselling in the Central West
The Bathurst Health Service Genetics Service, based at Bathurst Base Hospital, provides general genetics and familial (inherited) cancer services for people who are aware of, or suspect, a genetic condition in their family. Clinics are supported by genetic specialists, telehealth appointments are available, and there is no fee with a Medicare card. Appointments for the Orange clinic are also booked through the Bathurst office.
You will need a referral from your GP or specialist.
Further information
The Centre for Genetics Education has clear, plain-language fact sheets on genetic conditions, testing and how conditions are inherited.
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