12th week scan/nuchal translucency - lots of abnormalities.

[Amythest77]

Hi! I had my 12th weeks scan 2 days back and they found a few abnormalities. Fluid on the back of the head, pleural effusion, possible heart defects because of increased fluid in abdomen. Maternal serum came high for chromosomal abnormalities. Mostly for Down syndrome they said. (Both mine and my DH does not have any case of a chromosomal abnormality in our family). They did my CVS today ( for who wants to know, they inserted a local anaesthesia first and while looking at the ultrasound they inserted a needle inside the stomach which was a little painful with lots of pressure like feeling. It was over within 10 mins. What hurt the most was the insertion and then taking out. If anyone’s who’s going to go through this, you can do it. You’re stronger than you think.)
I have been crying my eyes out since two days and I have decided to go with the termination, I have a few questions regarding all of this, I would be highly grateful if they’re answered

1. What are the recurrence rates of a chromosomal abnormality in second pregnancy?
2. How soon can I start trying for the second baby? I can’t wait to start trying again :(
3. Does surgical abortion cause infertility?

Thanks so much.

So sorry you're having to go through this. It must be a shock. I didn't want to read and run.

I'm no expert - but abortions do not affect fertility although they are risks of infections etc.
Please discuss with the doctor recurrence rates and potential genetic links for a clearer idea.
Usually after a termination or miscarriage it's advised to wait one full cycle to determine dating easier provided there were no complications.
However please make sure you give yourself time to mentally heal and grieve for what has happened.

I hope you're ok OP. Sending hugs.

I had 2 miscarriages, one at at 22 weeks and another one at 16 weeks. My Ob/Gyn told me to try straight away.
At 22 weeks, I went into meant and delivered the baby but at 16 weeks , I had a partial miscarriage and was given abortion medication to complete the process. I was begging to have a surgical D&C, but the OB/Gyn told me there was always a risk of uterine adhesion with a surgical procedure, and I would be able to try sooner if I didn't have her.

A chromosome has at least a thousand genes, so it is easy to know if you have a chromosomal disorder. When it comes to a single gene genetic disorder / mutation, it is far less evident, so maybe wait for the result of the CVS.

To finish on a positive note, I have 3 children, all teens, who drive me mad most of the time.

Sending love and hugs from Australia.

No ideas how all those typos occurred.

I'm so sorry OP ❤️

For the reoccurrence you'll have to wait for the full CVS results, but with T21 it's very unusual as in most cases it's not genetic if it's a full copy of chromosome 21 (they do place you as a slightly higher risk for future pregnancies though).

Many people say to wait a cycle for dating a potential pregnancy easier, but actually this should be done to let your uterus recover. I've made the mistake to TTC straight away, fell pregnant and it ended in a chemical pregnancy. (Actually 3 by now...) I had a medical termination for T21 + physical abnormalities but had retained placenta so had to have a MVA to remove this.

Has anyone pointed the ARC (antenatal results and choices) out to you yet? They're a great charity and the ladies on the support line have been amazing. Once you've had your TFMR you can request to join their forum too, which is only for women who have gone through a TFMR. (There's one for dads too, but my husband isn't interested.) This has really been my saving grace in these early days and weeks.

I’m sorry you are going through this. I went through similar 2 years ago. I had a surgical termination at 13.3 weeks as my baby had Edwards syndrome T18. I did get an infection following this but was fine after more antibiotics. We waited a few months before trying again and actually took the offer of some counselling sessions (lots of crying!) I then fell pregnant 7 months after the termination and have a 9 month old baby girl now. I was offered extra scans and the harmony screening test which really helped with my anxiety. I think chromosome abnormalities are mostly random but your consultant will advise x

1. What you have gone through is most likely bad luck and it does not mean it will happen again.
2. You can try again as soon as your body recovers and as soon as you feel ready, it took me a while for my cycles to return to normal
3. No, it does not cause infertility, although there are risks with any surgery. I went down the medical route because of the gestation. However, given the slight risk of surgery I may have chosen the medical route.

I went through similar myself. My body didn't settle down and hcg return til normal until 3 months later and we started trying 3 months after this. I had an early miscarriage and then got pregnant first cycle after. I now have a healthy 6 month old who is keeping me up all night!!

Sorry you went through this and good luck for the future.