Extremely Low Free Beta HCG - 1/140 Risk of T18

mellie845

Hi Ladies --

I got the results of my first trimester screening last week and although the NT was fine and the nasal bone was present, my free beta HCG was very low (0.3MoM, 1st percentile) and my papa was low (0.43MoM, 10th percentile).  Since I am 37, they calculated my risk assessment of T18 at 1/40.  I had the Harmony test done yesterday morning and now I have to wait 9 - 11 more days. Complete agony!

From the reading I've done though, it seems like a low free beta HCG and pappa would more likely indicate potential placenta-related problems and slow growth, low birth weight. Which makes sense to me because in my first pregnancy I had placenta previa (which ultimately went away on its own) and both my children were on the smaller sidel. My son was born at 5 lb, 13 oz and my daughter at 6 lb, 7 oz.

I'm trying to stay positive but the thought of T18 is killing me. Anyone been in a similar situation? Any thoughts on the low blood work??

Thank you in advance!

peppercorn16

Hey there! I had the same results during my 1st tri screening and at 24 yrs old wound up being told I was a 1/95 risk for baby having trisomy 18 or 13-- total panic mode, right? I also opted for the cell free DNA test which came back within about 5 business days thankfully, even though they said 10-14 days. Everything was completely fine, and no markers were found on my follow-up ultrasound. They told me (like you said) that it was likely an improperly implanted placenta that could cause an increased risk of IUGR or pre-e. Thankfully, I am almost 34 weeks and baby is growing beautifully, consistently around the 68th percentile and my last growth scan will be next week! I have developed gestational hypertension but no pre-e, so as of yet that hasn't held true for me either.

Take the first tri screening with a grain of salt, it is a non-diagnostic screening and is one of the least accurate tests at determining the risk of trisomies. The cell free DNA test (like the Harmony) is a few steps up from that screening though it is still not diagnostic. An amnio would be the only sure shot to find out, but if the Harmony comes back clear, you can rest easy Good luck and let us know!

mellie845

Thanks so much for your thoughtful answer. Gave me some comfort! Appreciate it.

PlainJane8350

Most genetic abnormalities like that cause you to miscarry very, very early on. I had a missed miscarriage shortly after 7 weeks that we found out later was due to trisomy 13. I would go off of the ultrasound and, of course, the cell free DNA test that you're waiting on as odds are merely just that, odds based on general things like your age not taking anything about you personally into account. With our second pregnancy were took the Materna Plus test and rode those results all of the way to the end of my pregnancy, it was great peace of mind. I'm sure everything will be fine..but I know the waiting sucks, I'm sorry! The good news is that you'll find out whether it's a boy or a girl early!

mellie845

I just got the results and everything came back totally clear! Low risk! And a boy! So relieved and thrilled.

PlainJane8350

Awe..congratulations!!

TiffRox81

@peppercorn16 Where did you find information about other causes for the low blood work numbers?! I've been searching everywhere!

I recently did blood work and testing for the NT test and the scan looked great but blood work was another story. I've been hoping to find more information on blood work numbers.