I just wanted to share my story with everyone. After 3 miscarriages, I was finally pregnant and all seemed well! I was hopeful for a stress free pregnancy, however my journey soon became disrupted with a series of worrying results. I received a call from the hospital at about 14 weeks, saying that my blood test results were high risk for my baby having Down syndrome or another genetic disorder. The hospital said I can have a further blood test (NIPT) which is more accurate to diagnose 3 out of many conditions (Down syndrome being the most common). This was low risk so I was somewhat reassured. At my 20 week scan, the baby’s nuchal fluid at the back of his neck was about 8mm (normal would be less than 6). I was told that this was a concerning measurement and is an indicator for genetic disorders. I was referred to a specialist doctor and I went for scan every month. She did a full MOT on my baby each scan and the fluid always measured more than ‘normal’. She gave us the option of amniocentesis where a needle would pierce my stomach and she would extract amniotic fluid to do further tests. She also gave us the option of aborting, and I would be able to do this up until the point the baby would be at full term because of the raised nuchal fluid and risk of Down syndrome. This was a very worrying time as on one hand, all I wanted was a healthy baby. But on the other, I didn’t want to lose my child after so long trying for a successful pregnancy. Although she said that she couldn’t advise, she told me that the risk of misscarriage is 1 in 200. I just couldn’t take the risk. Me and my partner decided to accept that we would love our child no matter what.
He was born weighing 8lb11, completely healthy. 8 months on, he is babbling, rolling, smiling and perfect. If anyone is having similar experiences, trust your gut and be confident in your decisions. Although health advisors and doctors may seem concerned, this is your baby, your life and your choice.