1:30 Down Syndrome risk results -

[pipc77]

Hi guys, firstly i am new to this site so apologies if this is the wrong place to post!

I am 15 weeks pregnant with number 4 and really looking forward to expanding our family.

I have recently had my screening results back for Downs and have been given a 1:30 result. I am really feeling confused about how I feel, but the over riding feeling is guilt - have i done something/could i have done something different etc....

My rational side knows the answers but the irrational side keeps taking over.

I have declined the Amnio at this point as it wount change things for us either way, but I am wondering if I am being naive about things. Our other children are 5,6 and 7 and am worrying about the impact on them.

I really wasn't suprised when we got the call from the Midwife - although there was no real reason, just a feeling!

I am 35 which puts me in the 1:250 risk but NT and bloods have put me in the 1:30 - whilst Im not overly worried about the figures and am happily continuing with the pregnancy, I think what I am worried about is how poorly the baby will be (If at all), and how that effects our exsisting family.

Right, ramble over

I don't know if this will help you at all. I got 1:2 risk with DS and he was fine. There are still more chances that baby will be ok than not.

We had the amnio: I just needed to know.

You are being very brave. A DS baby will inevitably have a different impact on your family than a non-ds child, but you sound very brave to me.

Nothing else to add really, but have a hand-hold if you'd like one?

Hi Pip,

Perhaps its an idea to post this on antenatal tests and choices section of the site too. I know that are a lot of non-invasive tests and scans they can do to find out how the baby is developing and to offer support if there are going to be serious health problems ahead- heart defects for example, which DS babies sometimes have. I can really understand why you don't want an amnio and 1:30 is actually not a bad result given what they're measuring, but follow up scans can help you be prepared in case as you say the baby is poorly.

Another hand to hold here if you need one (where's the hand emoticon?)

You might want to have a look at the Downs Syndrome Association website as they provide information to new parents and families and give you an idea of the range of issues a child may have (the affect of downs syndrome on the health of a baby varies tremendously, as does the ability of someone with Down's to go on and lead an independent life).

You can view the site at: www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/

I would also add that a friend of mine got a 1:40 risk with all three of her pregnancies and went on to have a three healthy boys - it's just an estimate of risk.

The website also has links to local support groups so you may be able to find someone to talk to you your concerns.

One of my good friends at primary school was one of 5 girls and the middle child had downs syndrome, she was very much included in family life and while she had tantrum and strops (like any 6 year old!) she had no heart problems or other health issues - it really does vary from child to child.

Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy.

My partners sister has Downsyndrome- She's funny, beautiful and never fails to put a smile on your face. Her mum then had my partner and he's not got downsyndrome :). She had heart surgery at 6 months old, which now means she has breathing problems and can get really ill but apart from that shes healthy and a bloody brilliant person!

If baby has any other problems, they will probably pick it up in scan.. congratulations and good luck! X