Will my baby be okay?

Harmful Exposures During Pregnancy

Pregnant women may be exposed to conditions that cause concern about possible harm to the unborn baby.

If you have concerns about your unborn baby, tell your doctor. You may be referred to a genetic counselor for a Pregnancy Exposure Consultation.

Genetic counselors provide up-to-date information about the possible risks to an unborn child.

Most exposures during pregnancy will not harm the baby. Some, however, may be a problem.

Some Common Concerns

• Can my prescription medications affect my unborn baby?
• Could chemicals hurt my pregnancy? Our house was recently tented for termites.
• I got pregnant while taking birth control pills.
• I got a flu shot, then found out I was pregnant.
• What happens to my baby if I drink alcohol?
• I caught chicken pox from my oldest child.
• I'm pregnant and need X-rays. What should I do?

What do I need to do?

In order to best assist you, your genetic counselor will need to know as much as possible about the exposure. Your counselor will be asking you about the following issues. It would be helpful if you could take a few moments to write down notes prior to your consultation appointment.

• What are the exact names of medications or chemicals you were exposed to? What are the dates and duration of exposure?
• What was the date of your last menstrual period?
• Describe any illnesses during your pregnancy, and approximate dates.
• You will be asked about any previous pregnancies and about your health.
• Be familiar with your family health history.

What can I expect?

Your genetic counselor will provide you with the most current, relevant information available about your exposure and explain any special risks you may have. Your doctor will receive a written summary of this information.

Occasionally, when an exposure is complex, you will be asked to wait several days while pertinent information is collected and reviewed.

All communication will be confidential. Risk information is not given over the telephone.

To make an appointment

If you have concerns about an exposure during your pregnancy, call 983-8559 for an appointment.

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