Genetic Screening

I made my appointment for genetic screening, which they do between 11-13 weeks. The appointment is scheduled for Tuesday January 27th, which will be the 12th week. Prior to the appointment, I was sent a packet to fill out and also give a blood sample. They sent lancets to prick my finger and I had to put 5 drops of blood in the designated area of the form. This way, when we go to the appointment, they will have some preliminary data to share, so we have an idea of what the situation is with the baby. Joe and I are in a good position since we are so different genetically, so do not have to worry about ethnic diseases like Tay-Sachs. Like anyone, there is also concern about Downs or some other abnormality, so that is what we will discuss at the appointment. Further tests will determine the need for an amnio -- how big of likelihood it could be that our baby would have Downs or another abnormality. They can give you some statistics as far as the chances, so before we make any decisions on that front, we'll see what the preliminary blood tests show.

At my first appointment, they did a blood test which included checking to see if I was a carrier for Cystic Fibrosis, which anyone could be. Both parents need to be carriers for the child to develop it. I never heard back after the appointment, which I assume means I am not a carrier. If I was, then Joe would have to get tested. Looks like he got out of getting a blood test. :)