9 Weeks 2 days

PRSunshine416

Hello everyone, I am new on here and wanted to wish everyone the best of health during their pregnancies. I myself am a first timer in this pregnancy world. Being 35 years old poses many concerns in regards to which tests I should do or should do without. Please share any advice please. Thank you.

LucyRicardo3

Congrats and welcome!

There are several FTM's (first time mom) on here.

There are a few new tests on the market since my last pregnancy that I am still in the learning process.

The  NT test (Nuchal Translucency(sp?) is recommended to be performed during the 11-13 week window for the most accuracy. This test is to calculate the ratio of odds of Down Syndrome by measuring the area on the back of the baby's neck via u/s, as well as a few other markers they look for.

My last pregnancy, I was 35 and DH and I went through genetic counseling. I doubt we will need to do that again since the counselor believes our risk to be low as neither DH nor I have any family history of genetic concerns.

There are other newer tests (non-invasive) that use a simple blood draw (from you) that checks for the same chromosomal anomalies and a few others. It is supposed to a lot more accurate and is typically recommended after 15 weeks gestation for the most accurate results. Harmony is one of the names for this test.  My insurance will cover the NT scan but the service reps I've spoken with at my insurance are not familiar with Harmony or the other names, so I have to get the diagnosis codes to see if it's covered. If it's not covered, I could be out of pocket $800+.

Some docs recommend a CVS or amniocentesis for AMA following a NT scan, but I don't wish to go through that test since it is an invasive test to the baby. **ETA** I have had friends go through an amnio without any complications and the reported risk is very low when performed by a well trained professional. I am just a big fraidy cat when it comes to things like that. This is just a very personal decision my DH and I agree on since we would not terminate regardless of the outcome.

I am going for my NT scan in 2 weeks and depending on the outcome, I may do the Harmony, just so we can be prepared for any special care that may be required at birth. 

One neat thing is that for an additional fee, Harmony can also give you the definite sex of the baby a lot earlier than the anatomy scan at 20ish weeks.

ETA: The only person that can make the decision on which tests you should and should not do, is you. Just ask your dr lots of questions. I've also learned a lot just by going back and reading older threads on this board.

Good luck and best wishes!

happywifemomofone

Hello and welcome to the group!! We only had Quad screen done at 16 weeks, which is just a simple blood test that gives you odds of there being an issue with the baby.  If there was any abnormalities, we might consider an amniocentesis.  We will have anatomy scan (ultrasound) in a couple weeks.  If everything appears normal, then it is unlikely that we will have any further testing.

LotzaLuvz

We are having the harmony test done. No matter the outcome we will not terminate either but, we want to be prepared for any type of special needs that will need to be met.

Guennie

Welcome and congrats! I did the quad screen and had a positive risk for Downs so I was sent to the MFM for a level 2 ultrasound. Everything looked perfect at the scan so no further testing was recommended. Had they suggested an amnio I would have refused as I do not want any invasive testing. I think the most important thing for you to decide is what answers do you feel you absolutely have to have, and will any positive screenings affect your decision to continue with the pregnancy.