Relationships described as consanguineous are those between couples who are at least second cousins or more closely related. The practice has been legal in Britain for more than 400 years, but is considered one of societys last taboos.

What is cousin marriage called?

In clinical genetics, consanguinity is defined as a union between two individuals who are related as second cousins or closer, with the inbreeding coefficient (F) equal or higher than 0.0156.

What happens when you have a baby with your cousin?

First cousins are somewhat more likely than unrelated parents to have a child with a serious birth defect, mental retardation or genetic disease, but their increased risk is nowhere near as large as most people think, the scientists said.

Is first cousin marriage legal?

(b) between 2 siblings (whether of the whole blood or the half-blood). While it may be presumed that an ancestor or descendant of the person would include a first cousin, it does not. So, while it is illegal (for good reason) to marry your parents or your grandparents, you are legally able to marry your first cousin.

What is it called when you have a baby with your cousin?

Children of your cousin are actually called your first cousins once removed. But your cousins child would be a second cousin to your own children.