
I'm debating the amnio test, which I have been offered since I"m going to be over 35 when I deliver. I just don't know that I could do anything if there were even a problem, so why bother finding out, then just worrying about it? Did anyone/is anyone struggling with this issue?
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I had one and it was pretty uncomfortable, but then it was over with and now that was ten weeks ago. In making my decision I considered the full range of possible outcomes and how I'd respond to that range. It's a big decision and a big responsibility, determining how you think you'd want to handle any of those outcomes. If you think knowing might change even how you prepare for your kid, it can be worthwhile, but it's a very personal choice. |
I struggled with the same question about 12 weeks ago after receiving an indication of increased likelihood of a chromosomal disorder from one of those awful screening tests. Ultimately I decided that I would rather be informed than go through the remainder of my pregnancy wondering what was going on. I figured that, if necessary, being informed would allow me to prepare for a child with a disability (as much as that is possible). If the test said that there were no problems, then I could put my worrying aside. Thankfully, as with most amnio results, mine showed no indication of any of the disorders for which it tests. Whether or not to have an amnio is a completely a personal decision, and I wish you the best on whatever you decide. |
I too was over 35 and opted for the amnio. I had no risk factors other than age but decided I needed to know with certainty that the baby was fine in certain respects. I knew the risks and felt I weighed them well against my emotional needs. Turned out well and the procedure was simple with no complications...I just took one day off from work to rest.
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I had a CVS and had no problems whatsoever. I was 42 when I got pregnant. I wanted to know very early on if there were any issues to be dealt with-and I had lost a pregnancy when I was 41 to age related DS. What I liked about the CVS is that it's done between 11-13 weeks and can be done transcervically. I think there is though an early amnio now. We knew in 2 days that our son had all his chromosomes. |
OP - recommend going with your gut instinct. I was 37 at pregnancy and no family medical history (adopted), but I still opted out. A few people told me I was crazy, but I had twins and I was really, really scared about needles going in 2 times and didn't want to mess with CVS so early in pregnancy not knowing history of miscarriage in my genes. OB totally supportive and helpful in coming to that decision. Later I found out more of my friends 35+ opted out than did it. But everyone seemed comfortable with their own decisions.
Hope all goes well! |
I too received an increased likelihood of a chromosomal disorder from one fo those tests, but I opted out of the amnio. Just curious, but what was your test result that gave you the increased likelihood? I am still nervous about the whole thing! |
I did amnio with both my pregnacies (over 35 for both). Mainly b/c if we had a child with special needs (we wouldnt terminate either way, try to decide this before)...I would want to be prepared and get a support community in place.
Good luck, it can be nerve racking but if you do, you will be more relaxed the rest of pregnancy with knowledge. |
I had the ultrascreen test (combo of an ultrasound and blood test). I've now heard so many stories of people getting "bad" results from that test or similar screening test and everything turns out fine. I know it's nerve-wracking but just try to keep in mind that the odds are everything is OK. |
Just wanted to chime in on the screening tests. It is just that, a screening test so there can't be any "false positives." It is only supposed to give you odds based on indicators so that you can decide to do more invasive follow up screening that will give you close to 100% certainty on any possible chromosomal problems. If you do not want to do any follow up testing if you get increased odds from the screen, then do not get the screen. It will just cause worry.
We had the screen and based on the results of the screen decided to do a follow up CVS where we found out that our son has down syndrome. We wanted to know so that we could prepare either way and, at 7 months pregnant, I am more than glad that I found out at 12 weeks about the Trisomy 21 rather than in the delivery room. But, it is a personal decision and if you decide to get the follow up testing, I agree with the PP to discuss with your significant other what you are going to do with the results BEFORE you get them. |