WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for January, 1999: Re: Amnios / DS

Re: Amnios / DS

From: Mary (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Mon, 4 Jan 1999 09:31:41 -0600

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>I am 36 yrs old and 9 weeks pregnant with my first child. In my first
>prenatal visit with my doctor last week she discussed amnios - rates of
>miscarriages due to the test, and down syndrome - rates at different
>ages. Unfortunately I did not write these numbers down. I am trying to
>make my decision on if I should have an amnio and would like to know the
>numbers for a 36 year old. I will be 36 at delivery. There is no
>family history of downs.

Hi Kathy,

Congratulations on your pregnancy!

I'm certain one (or more) of the medical professionals will provide the stats you are seeking but let me give you something to think about. (I *think* miscarriage rate is 1 in 200.)

What will you do with the information you receive from this test?

Possible outcomes of having an amnio are: Results reveal no chromosomal problems, no side effects from test Results reveal no chromosomal problems, miscarry Results indicate a problem, continue pregnancy and prepare to raise a child with special needs Results indicate a problem, terminate pregnancy

Refusing the amnio: Bypass possible side effects from amnio Possible chromosomal problems unknown - unless detected later by ultrasound scan No time to prepare if a developmentally challenged baby is born

*Keep in mind that all birth defects cannot be detected by amnio, so it is not an absolute guarantee of a healthy baby.

I realize this is a very difficult decision. I am planning another pregnancy, (at this rate!) will be over 36 by then and am already weighing the pros and cons. I have lost two babies due to severe birth defects; did not have an amnio with the first but autopsy revealed normal male chromosomes; did have an early (11 week) amnio (and had side effects of cramping and fluid leakage) with the second and again chromosomes revealed a normal male fetus. We do have 2 healthy children so I know we can get this right :)

Best wishes to you for an uneventful pregnancy and a healthy baby!

Please come over and check out OBGYN.net's Pregnancy & Birth section where we have lots of articles, our own forum, great links, and so much more:

http://www.obgyn.net/pb/pb.htm

Sincerely, Mary Shoup Coordinator, Pregnancy & Birth mary.shoup@obgyn.net

P.S. If you wish to discuss this further, feel free to email me :)

I am not saying this to start an abortion debate - that is not what this forum is used for.

Next message: James Connerth MD: "Re: Amnios / DS"
Previous message: James Connerth MD: "Re: any others.....after the pill?"
Maybe in reply to: Kathy: "Amnios / DS"
Next in thread: James Connerth MD: "Re: Amnios / DS"

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