Reproductive Genetics and Prenatal Genetic Testing

Montefiore's Reproductive Genetics Division is at the forefront of current research and expanding the cutting-edge field of genetics counseling. Our participation in prestigious and groundbreaking studies is a testament to the respect our division has earned.

Multiple Tests and Specialties

Our affiliation with the Albert Einstein College of Medicine keeps us at the forefront of new studies and developments in the field. Currently, we offer patients these areas of expertise:

• Amniocentesis: Tests for birth defects 15 to 18 weeks after a woman's last menstrual period.
• Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): Tests for birth defects 10 to 12 weeks after a woman's last menstrual period.
• Transvaginal ultrasound: An anatomy scan that can be done at 13 weeks.
• Specialty in early anatomy, beginning at 13 weeks.

We draw on our ever-growing experience to help develop new genetic counseling applications, while remaining deeply committed to the well-being of each woman we treat.

Groundbreaking Research

Our knowledge and skill are advanced through exciting and important studies, such as the multi-center FASTER Trial, completed in 2002. More than 30,000 pregnant women participated in the study, which examined whether first-trimester screening is effective for detecting Down Syndrome. Montefiore alone completed tests on more than 2,000 women.

The study revealed that it may be possible to complete early screening for Down Syndrome with the right technology and expertise. Our participation in the study gave us early experience with the procedure and expanded our understanding of the applications and benefits of genetic testing.

Making Testing Available to All Women

Genetic testing is an increasingly important aspect of prenatal care. Just consider the directive released in 2003 by the American College of OBGYN and the American College of Medical Genetics, under the offices of the National Institute of Health. It mandated that every woman be informed that parents can now be tested for the cystic fibrosis gene.

Those women at a high risk for having children with certain conditions can now undergo such tests to gain a thorough knowledge of any potential complications.

Knowledge Plus Compassionate Counsel

Women not only have access to the latest genetic testing methods at Montefiore; they also benefit from our doctors' vast expertise in analyzing and applying the results of those tests.

Our patients also receive vitally important compassionate counsel. Expectant mothers are reassured through our knowledge, experience and emotional supportiveness as they strive to make the best decisions with the information they are given, during even the most stressful times.