Trying not to cry

ahastin1

Your chances are honestly still good that your LO will not have DS - so keep that in mind. But, in case it does happen, there are so many resources out there - you just have to do your local research. Early Intervention programs will definitely be key (it's what I typically work with in my field - although my primary area is Autism). Programs such as Help Me Grow or any other private ones (check with your university/college-related programs that are run through grants). Also, look into how your local public schools are with special education services. Some districts are great, others not so much - so look around at yours and maybe neighboring ones, especially if moving is an option for you and your family. There is also often state funding for students/children (even young ones) with disabilities if you would need assistance with paying for programs or any services.

I don't want to go into too many details since chances are you may not need this information; however, just know that there is SO much out there. You won't be alone, no matter what happens. 

b48kate

No personal experience here, but the MaterniT21 will give you greater than 99% accuracy and I hope that gives you peace of mind. Also, if you need to cry, go ahead girl...get it out.  I actually find a good cry to be cathartic sometimes. Will be thinking about you!

JNerd

Just thoughts and prayers for you and LO! Praying for the 5/6 for healthy baby.

chloephoebecali

Two of my children's nt scan results came back abnormal meaning the risk was higher than it should have been per my age each time. With my first daughter, they did not have the extra tests they have now (harmony, materniti, etc). We had a genetic ultrasound and although they do not guarantee anything, everything looked fine. She was fine. I just recently had another abnormal nt scan but two weeks later had a harmony test come back low risk. If I did not go through it the first time, I'm sure I would have been sick to my stomach and stressed waiting for the results, but since having that experience I've met so many people that had the same. Personally, I think they should just move to doing harmony/materniti/etc tests at this point and save us the stress of uncertainty after an abnormal nt. The science is there now, but insurance companies just need to cover it up front without the need of an abnormal nt. Doctors in this area typically push harmony/materniti upfront if you are 35 or older but I think that anyone that is wants the nt scan should get that at the same time. The results can take 2-3 weeks and that is a long time for those results when you are already told something is abnormal. Ultimately, I think there is better science now than the nt but insurance hasn't followed suit, yet. Know there are lots of people that get abnormal results that with further testing they are actually low risk. Like pp mentioned, your baby has better odds of not having it. Just hold tight until you get your next test and results back. Lots of t&p and hugs!

Unknown

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lizok22

I answered you on the pg after 35. Yes I have been through this and there are tons of false positives with these screenings. They are just that screenings not diagnostic tests so they are giving you odds not actual positive results. If you are over 35 like me, you are instantly flagged as high risk. Good luck to you, I'm sure it will be fine.

ahopkins0419

T&Ps for you and baby.....

diagonalley

Thoughts and prayers to you that everything turns out ok. I am a special education teacher and there are lots of resources that by law would be available for your LO. You could look into your local intermediate unit if you have one or contact your school district about early intervention services. Someone should definitely be able to hook you up with helpful information. Good luck and please keep us informed!

[Deleted User]

Lurking from another board.  I had a baby with Down Syndrome in July.  My odds were 1 in 10000.  It was a surprise diagnosis at birth. (So odds to me are now meaningless).  The best thing you can do is to treat your baby like all your other babies, but know that your baby will need extra help to do things.  Start Early Intervention as soon as possible.  There are support groups on FB and Baby Center that are helpful.  Also look into support groups in your area.  They can get a great resource since they have all ready been through it.  Your older kids will also be a great help.  DD loves to watch other babies do stuff and it shows her what she needs to do.

T&Ps that everything turns out fine.It is still your baby and you will love the baby. DD amazes me everyday with what she can do.

chance_encounters

Wow. I am sitting here in tears just amazingly overwhelmed by all of your thoughts, prayers and kind words. You are an amazing group of ladies. Thank you (hugs) to each and every one of you.

caseybethk

Just wanted to share some support. A few weeks ago my blood work showed positive for downs syndrome. Everyone kept assuring me that there are a lot of false positives but its hard. I had a long emotional few weeks and yesterday we had the detailed sonogram and showed a healthy baby we decided to not to any extra tests. I know what it's like. It isn't easy but hang in there. I hope everything works out for you

Read247

No words of wisdom. Just a hug from a stranger...

ChristineBaker23

Today when my midwife asked if I wanted the screening she reminded me that false positives can happen and it's not always accurate. (I turned down the test because we have no family history etc..but not the point) Remember there is a 5/6 chance baby is a ok!! This second check you're going to do will provide you with more information so just be patient!

LilyGracesMommy

@change_encounters What an awesome attitude, I can understand where you're coming from as this is #3 for us and also unplanned; I think your faith says it all, god does not give you more than you can handle; that being said once you do get your definitive results, there should be both local and national services and aides for medical needs. I do know that DS babies do have a higher incidence of heart defects, in fact my bf's brothers had a surgery when he was a baby, but other than that initial surgery, his medical history is basically the same as any other child. So perhaps your medical expenses would not be all that different as it would for a non-DS child? Either way with your positive attitude and outlook, no matter the results, You and your family will get through it. As a nurse, I've seen the difference having a positive outlook on life can make, and having one is winning half the battle ( in my eyes) Best of Luck, HTH

kimmyberly26

I don't have any advice but wanted to give you huge hugs! Keep us posted.