Stories by Laura Hercher

Laura Hercher is a genetic counselor and director of student research at the Joan H. Marks Graduate Program in Human Genetics at Sarah Lawrence College. She has written broadly on ethical, legal and social issues related to genetic medicine. Hercher is the host of The Beagle Has Landed, a podcast for the clinical genetics community and other sci-curious individuals.

Reproduction

Genetic Counselors Scramble Post-Roe to Provide Routine Pregnancy Services without Being Accused of a Crime

The Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe v. Wade means that prenatal advice to patients can suffer and that counselors can face lawsuits and criminal charges

August 3, 2022 — Laura Hercher

Medicine

An IVF Embryo Test Aims to Prevent Miscarriages: Is It Worth It?

The test could help ensure a successful pregnancy but still leaves hopeful parents with some difficult decisions

June 1, 2022 — Laura Hercher

Genetic Engineering

A New Era of Designer Babies May Be Based on Overhyped Science

Genetic testing with IVF is being marketed as a means to choose a healthy embryo, despite questions about the soundness of the technology

July 12, 2021 — Laura Hercher