Hospital want to see me today re. High Risk Grouping for Downs - Going Mad with Worry.

[Mikocat]

I am sat at work going a bit mad. A midwife from Leeds General Infirmary rang an hour ago to say that my blood test results show me as being in the high risk group for Downs and that they would like me to come in 'to discuss next steps'.

I'm 38, so I knew this was a possibility, but after our screening on Monday I read on the print out (I thought) that the nuchal measurement was 1.8, which I thought was really good. So I really wasn't expecting this.

What are they going to tell me? Are they going to make me have more tests there and then? I'm so panicky.

That is a very low nuchal measurement (which is good). Our DS's was 3.5, I was 40 years old, my blood test results were very indicative of Down's, but... he was fine. It is a screening test and with those nuchal results I would not be overly worried. Would probably still opt for the CVS, though.

I can only guess that they will be wanting to tell me my risk factor and asking me if I want further testing. At 14 +3 I seem to be in the middle of the times for both test from what I've read so I'm guessing that i might have to wait for an amnio?

I don't really see that I have any option but to take whatever tests are offered me, risks and all.

You can substantially reduce the risk by going to a reputable doctor. Prof Nikolaides in London is very famous for doing these procedures. You have to pay, but he really is the best.

Hi, I was given a 1:15 risk, mostly due to blood test results, although nuchal was 2.6mm. I had a cvs and all was fine.

What happened with me was like you I had a phone call at work telling me I was high risk and asking me to go to the hospital at 9am the following morning. There they explained my results and what made me high risk and I opted to have a cvs done which was done there and then (I was only 12+5 tho).

It sounds like your blood test results combined with your age are giving you a high risk result. The scan was good in your case so that's very positive, bloods can be unreliable. I personally would have a cvs or amnio if it were me but I'm very much a need to know person.

Good luck tomorrow and ask them as many questions as you need. You should be allocated a fetal medicine midwife who will support you.

Hello Mikocat.
I was in the same situation as you a few weeks back, although Im expecting triplets. We decided to have the cvs test and Im so glad we did. We got the results back last week and thankfully all is well. On one of our babies the nuchal measurement was much higher than yours- 4.2. Like you say, tests carry risks, but if you don't have them its going to be constant worry throughout your pregnancy. Only you and your oh can make the decision to test or not. Good luck with it all anyway xx

The risk factor was 1:109. They have booked me in for an amnio next Thursday. Fingers crossed.

kentDee, I didn't think you could have a CVS when carrying multiples? Can you confirm this as I am very interested. Thanks.

Yes I had a cvs and Im pregnant with triplets!

Good luck Mikocat. x

I've been told that after the appointment I need to 'take it easy' but that seems quite open to interpretation. I have decided to take the day off work (it's at 9 a.m.), but should I plan on being off Friday too? My husband is going to work from home on Thursday, so I won't be alone that day. I'm wondering whether keeping busy is a better option than stayong home on my own or if I really won't feel like seeing anyome IYSWIM.

I work in the civil service, so they are obliged to give me all the time I need. (one of it's few perks!)

The procedure itself doesn't really hurt, its just uncomfortable. I must admit that I did suffer a bit of pain so I took it easy for 24 hours. You will just have to see how you feel. They gave me pain killers to ease the pain. Good luck.

Dr Ferriman at LGI is lovely and did our CVS. Unfortunately it was t21 but our nuchal was 10mm.
Just to reassure you that they are very good and "reputable" at Leeds fetal medicine.

Thank you blacktreaclecat that's the doctor doing my Amnio, so it's reassuring to hear. I'm very sorry that you didn't get the result you hoped for.

I'm pregnant again (very early) following array cgh ICSI. The embryo had it's chromosomes checked before transfer so we know they are very likely to be normal. Still very nervous though.
Good luck for your amnio.

I had a 1.25 for Edwards at 12 weeks, nuchal 2.4 . I had a cvs. I literally spent a week in bed to rest afterwards as I have a very physical job . I wouldn't bank on going back to work and try and take it as easy as you can. Good luck...my ds is fine by the way ..5 months old :)

I had 48 hrs in bed. It's the only perk....

I am going to wait and see how I feel about going in on Friday. To be honest the idea of being at work when the results come in (if they are bad - or if they ring to tell me it will be another 2 weeks) is dreadful.

I'm sure you can signed off to rest .

Hi I have had 3 Cvs's (at the LGI) and each recovery has been slightly different. With one I was able to take ds out for the day to a national trust place the next day!! The next two I chilled out at home the next day whilst my lovely mil looked after the other dc so I could recover.

Hope all goes well. X

The amnio was uncomfortable, but quick, now just waiting waiting waiting...

Good luck miko hope you get a good result.

Thank you, the periody-type cramps are worrying the hell out of me today. Terrified every time I go to the loo. :-(

The consultant rang to say that the Down's test is all clear! I am still a bit worried about the miscarriage risk, but am going to try and have a normal weekend now that the waiting for the results is over.

Lovely news. Put your feet up for the weekend!

Metaphorically ! It wasn't medical advice !