genetic counselor

An amniocentesis or amniotic fluid test (AFT ) is a procedure where a small amount of amniotic fluid containing traces of fetal tissue is extracted from the amniotic sac (or amnion ) surrounding a developing fetus . After fluid extraction , centrifugation is done to separate fetal cells and examine their chromosomes for abnormalities . The test determines whether or not a baby is at risk by checking for the existence of chromosomes that are known to exhibit abnormalities (Homeier , 2005 . The test is popular for its accuracy in determining Down syndrome , metabolic diss , and anencephaly (Homeier , 2005

p If the unborn child is positively detected to have a particular genetic dis , then I would advice the parents depending on the nature of the dis . If the dis is grave and irreparable and would affect the child 's life extremely , then I would have to suggest abortion . If the dis is reparable through some sort of yet unapproved stem cell procedures , then I would suggest for the couple to seek out such options . I make these suggestions because my profession as a genetic counselor should lead me to be more objectives and realistic than emotional and idealistic . If the couple would go against my advice , then they may seek societal counseling and hope that society makes good on its promise to treat the child with acceptance . While society means well , it cannot be denied that even society 's promises of equal treatment and loving acceptance are easily broken and people with peculiarities are more often the subject of ridicule or pity rather than of genuine acceptance . Therefore , it is science in all its calculating certainty that knows best

Reference

Homeier , B , MD (2005 . Prenatal Tests . Retrieved January 4 , 2008 from KidsHealth website http /www .kidshealth .org /parent /pregnancy_newborn /pregnancy /prenatal_te sts .html Amniocentesis...