Down Syndrome

I have just had my 12 week scan and as if it wasnt bad enough with everythig going on and my partner not being able to come in the room. I got told my baby has a chance of down syndrome, 35 is classed as high and my baby is measuring 32 whatever all this even means but we will find out Friday. I am so worried and have been in tears. What are the chances of my baby having this has anyone else been told this and they have been wrong ? 

4 thoughts on “Down Syndrome

  1. Anonymous says:

    Hi mummy to be first off congratulations on your pregnancy!! Try not to worry too much about the initial measurement scan, these scans are very unaccurate and are definitely not used as a means to diagnose down syndrome. This scan merely highlights whether a pregnancy needs a second look to see if it could be down syndrome or not, there’s still a very high chance that it’s not. If the screening tests show there could be a potential risk, then you will then be guided to make a decision about more-specific diagnostic tests.
    Screening tests include the first trimester combined test and the integrated screening test, it sounds like you have only had the first test so the second screening test could still rule it out.

    The first trimester combined test, which is done in two steps, includes:

    Blood test. This blood test measures the levels of pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and the pregnancy hormone known as human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Abnormal levels of PAPP-A and HCG may indicate a problem with the baby.

    Nuchal translucency test. During this test, an ultrasound is used to measure a specific area on the back of your baby’s neck. This is known as a nuchal translucency screening test. When abnormalities are present, more fluid than usual tends to collect in this neck tissue.

    Integrated screening test
    The integrated screening test is done in two parts during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. The results are combined to estimate the risk that your baby has Down syndrome.

    First trimester. Part one includes a blood test to measure PAPP-A and an ultrasound to measure nuchal translucency.
    Second trimester. The quad screen measures your blood level of four pregnancy-associated substances: alpha fetoprotein, estriol, HCG and inhibin A.

    Diagnostic tests during pregnancy
    If your screening test results are positive or worrisome, or you’re at high risk of having a baby with Down syndrome, you might consider more testing to confirm the diagnosis. Your health care provider can help you weigh the pros and cons of these tests.

    Diagnostic tests that can identify Down syndrome include:

    Chorionic villus sampling (CVS). In CVS, cells are taken from the placenta and used to analyze the fetal chromosomes. This test is typically performed in the first trimester, between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. The risk of pregnancy loss (miscarriage) from a CVS is very low.
    Amniocentesis. A sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus is withdrawn through a needle inserted into the mother’s uterus. This sample is then used to analyze the chromosomes of the fetus. Doctors usually perform this test in the second trimester, after 15 weeks of pregnancy. This test also carries a very low risk of miscarriage.
    Preimplantation genetic diagnosis is an option for couples undergoing in vitro fertilization who are at increased risk of passing along certain genetic conditions. The embryo is tested for genetic abnormalities before it’s implanted in the womb.

    As you can see you are still at the very start of this journey so there is still plenty of hope to hold onto. I hope this helps clarify some things for you and puts your mind at ease.

    • Anonymous says:

      They can always be wrong too , they told my friend her daughter had 80% chance of being downsyndrome and there was nothing wrong with her. She is now 10 very normal and healthy. On the other side too downsyndromes are probaly the most happiest people in the world I have worked with downsyndrome babies and they are magical! Dont be afraid of anything either way it will be a blessing in disguise.

  2. Anonymous says:

    hi, the comment above was really factual and reassuring too. try your best to stay positive, you haven’t had the proper tests yet so there’s still loads of hope. good luck!!!

  3. Anonymous says:

    Yes they definitely can always be wrong too! If everyone aborted a baby from going off a downsydrome prediction test then so many healthy babies would never be born.
    A child with down syndrome can still live a happy life and experience love, warmth and happiness, as long as you are willing to be their support and guidance then it will be okay I promise.

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