So, the perinatalogist's office called yesterday afternoon. We go in first thing in the morning on Dec. 17th. Then, walk across the path to my doctor's office for our monthly appointment with him. The test has two parts: a blood test and an ultrasound. The blood sample is sent out and screened for levels of PAPP-A (pregnancy associated plasma protein A) and HCG (pregnancy hormone). With down syndrome, levels of PAPP-A tend to be decreased, while HCG is increased. The ultrasound will measure the thickness at the back of the baby's neck. Increased thickness is associated with down syndrome and other abnormalities/birth defects.
The lab calculates a woman’s risk of chromosomal birth defects using the combined results of her blood test and ultrasound. First-trimester screening can detect about 82% - 87% of pregnancies affected by Down syndrome and about 90% of those affected by trisomy 18 (mental retardation).
In other words, we need your prayers for our little miracle! Of course, we're trying to stay positive, but the looming tests are a bit nerve wracking. Thank you again for all of the prayers you keep sending our way. It has given us hope and strength. Our little one is very blessed to have such wonderful family and friends!
I forgot to mention yesterday that I weighed in at the doctor's office as gaining almost a pound! Anyone who knows me knows this is quite a defeat. We were very happy to see this and hope to see it increase even more steadily over the next few weeks. Wish me Luck!
The lab calculates a woman’s risk of chromosomal birth defects using the combined results of her blood test and ultrasound. First-trimester screening can detect about 82% - 87% of pregnancies affected by Down syndrome and about 90% of those affected by trisomy 18 (mental retardation).
In other words, we need your prayers for our little miracle! Of course, we're trying to stay positive, but the looming tests are a bit nerve wracking. Thank you again for all of the prayers you keep sending our way. It has given us hope and strength. Our little one is very blessed to have such wonderful family and friends!
I forgot to mention yesterday that I weighed in at the doctor's office as gaining almost a pound! Anyone who knows me knows this is quite a defeat. We were very happy to see this and hope to see it increase even more steadily over the next few weeks. Wish me Luck!
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