This is going to be the second time writing this post. Unfortunately, the first one I have written was not saved for whatever reason. So I apologize but this is going to be a shorter version. This is a continuation of the previous update on my pregnancy.
Combined Test
I just want to give an update about my 12-week ultrasound and the result of the combined test that was done during that same appointment. The combined test is a screening they offer for pregnant women to determine early on if the baby has a high chance of having a Downs, Patau, and Edwards Syndrome. More information is available here.
During that appointment, the baby was checked for nuchal transparency. Afterward, they have taken my blood for testing. The result came back after 3 days via a phone call which was not what we were hoping for. The midwife relayed that the result came back with an ‘increased chance’ for Down’s syndrome but a low chance for the other two.
An increased chance with a ratio of 1:50 means that in a room of 50 pregnant women, for example, I could be the one having a baby with Down’s.
Printed result of my Combined test.
NIPT
Although shocked and saddened by that news, I asked her the next options to take. She told us about a test called NIPT or Non-invasive Prenatal testing. The procedure is still the same, blood will be taken from me and it will be tested for chromosomal problems. From my understanding, it is a test where the DNA of the baby will be separated from the mother. From then, they will then check for extra chromosomes on the baby.
In the waiting room. The midwife explained to us the result of my test.
Unluckily, the first sample taken turned out to be ‘no result’ which according to the midwife could mean that there was not enough DNA sample from the baby. Thereafter, I was offered to do the test one more time and I agreed with the hope that this time there will be a result.
The first result of my NIPT- No result was obtained.
The waiting time was rather long and hard. They needed to send the sample to a laboratory in London so results could come back between 7-10 days. It was a worrying time for me and my husband. A strong support system is very important during those times. But I’m lucky to have him as both of us get strength from each other. And most importantly, we have entrusted everything to the Lord.
Result
Then one day, I received a call from the midwife weeks after saying that we have a ‘low chance’ of Downs Syndrome. Thank goodness for that. I was so relieved to hear it. She explained that we don’t have to do anything next. I was very happy to hear that great news. I thanked her and ended the call.
That chapter has finally ended now. It was very worrying that before going to bed and waking up, that was all I think about. The midwife has highlighted that the ‘increased chance’ from the beginning could be attributed to my low PAPP-A. But she did not want us to think too much about it yet although I have googled it after her mentioning the word.
Anyway, that will be all for this post. My low PAPP-A will be for another story.
