Effectiveness of genetic counseling for families with craniofacial anomalies

Questionnaire data about genetic counseling experiences are presented from 37 parents and 25 patients who were evaluated. The subjects' perceptions vary regarding the cause of cleft lip or palate or both. More positive feelings about the birth defect are expressed after the subjects receive counseling. However, 25 percent of the sample express negative feelings about the birth defect after counseling. Ninety percent of the subjects indicate that counseling should occur within the first 3 months of the birth of the infant with a cleft. The subjects agree significantly on the important components of genetic counseling. The authors conclude that effective counseling includes (1) providing facts, alleviating guilt, and dispelling misperceptions; (2) discussing decision making; and (3) facilitating the coping process. Implications for further research and a protocol for counseling are suggested.