First Trimester Screening

Did anyone have a first trimester screening? If so, were you recommended to have an amnio based on the results? I am very torn because I am trying to prevent having an amnio but my results came back slightly elevated for Downs. The blood test was normal but the nuchal translucency was a little abnormal. Everything looked fine for the 2 trisomy tests, it is the possibility of Downs that might be elevated.
If you aren't comfortable posting "publicly", please FM me. Obviously,I would keep any and all advice and information completely confidential.

Re: First Trimester Screening

I *think* everyone who is past the 12 week mark had first trimester screening. Most opt for it just to get the extra sonogram.

Before mine my OB didn't think I should have an amnio even though generally accepted medical practice said I should based on age. When the risk for Down Syndrome came back elevated he changed his tune.

I had the amnio at 16 weeks. Our decision was based on
1. research into the risks associated with an amnio;
2. conversations I had with women on this site that I know personally who were faced with making the same decision;
3. conversations with other women I've known for 20+ years who were faced with making the same decision;
4. long deep conversations between DH & I about our options.

Good luck with your choice - whatever it may be.

Re: First Trimester Screening

I had the screening. I also just had the AFP test which is supposed to also test for spina bifida and downs (15-16 weeks). Perhaps you can have that test first.

If my results were abnormal I probably would have opted for an amnio. It's a personal decision. As far as risks associated, I believe they are minimal nowadays.

Re: First Trimester Screening

I had a slightly elevated risk after our ultrascreen as well. Our NT number was good, it was the bloodwork levels that were off.
The dr. didn't recommend that I have the amnio or not because my results were so borderline. We met with a genetic counselor and made the decision to go ahead with the amnio.

Re: First Trimester Screening

I don't think it is so much that I am afraid of the test itself, I think it is more of what I would do with the results.
I know that I could never terminate a pregnancy based on a test (that does have a possibility of a false positive) so I almost feel like what is the point of potentially harming myself or the baby.

Re: First Trimester Screening

I declined the first trimester screening. No real particular reason for declining it. I do have my AFP test this week though.

Re: First Trimester Screening

My eldest daughter has Down Syndrome. Because of this I was "encouraged" to have an amnio with my subsequent pregnancies. With DS I chose to have the Ultrascreen test and take it from there. We were happy with the results and decided not to have any further testing. Had the results come back elevating my risk we would of chosen to have the amnio...