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Question
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My cousin and I are in love with each other. Her mom and my mom are sisters of
different fathers, but of the same mothers. What are the chances of birth defects,
as we are planning to have a baby? This is very important to us, so whatever
help you may give us will be highly appreciated. Thank you.
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Answer
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Although there has recently been some controversy about just how risky it is for
cousins to have children, it is clear that your chances of passing on certain
hereditary conditions are greatly increased. There are a number of forms of
disease that are carried via a recessive gene. Both partners must be carriers
of the recessive gene for them to produce a child with this illness. Of course,
the more closely the partners are related, the more likely this is to occur.
Your situation is a little better because your mothers were actually half-sisters.
Thus, you would really be more like half-cousins. Nonetheless, if a disease or
hereditary condition is carried on your mother's side, you could be greatly
increasing your risk.
What I would strongly advise you to do is to see a genetic counselor. These are
professionals specially trained to help you assess your chance of producing a
child with various hereditary traits. The decision whether to have a child, of
course, always remains with you. Best of luck.
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Best,
Dr. Sandor Gardos
MyPleasure provides up-to-date and useful sexual education materials in combination
with a store that allows people to buy, try, and learn about new aspects of
sexuality. We believe everybody deserves a great sex life.
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