What steps should I take to screen for rare genetic diseases to find out wether or not they run in my family.I want to do this before I have a child and not get surprised after nine months. I had to get genetic testing because I have a trait that could have affected my shildren. I also had to get genetic counseling. What you have to do is ask your doctor for a simple blood test that can find any possible genetic traits. If they find something then you can be referred to genetic counseling. It's scary. I have a trait called Mediterranean Thalyssemia. They told me that if my spouse had the trait there would be a one in four chance that the baby could come out with a severe blood disorder (luckily my hubby did not have the trait. They ask you about your family history and everything. | 