1st trimester testing- kinda long

I had my 2nd doctor's appointment today-I'm 10w3d and my doctor and I discussed which (if any) of the prenatal tests I should do. I am 25 with no family history on either side of downs, spina bifa, or other problems like that. My doctor told me that if I want to, I can have the Nuchal Translucency test (the sonogram with the blood test) done now but it's a matter of personal preference, not out of necessity. She told me that the triple screen blood test is always offered at 16 weeks and that's done in the office, but the 1st trimester test has to be done in a genetic counselor office. I opted not to have the sono with the blood test and wait for the blood test at 16 weeks. I know that both these tests have a high rate of false positives. I was wondering how many women here opted to get one of these tests done, or opted not to have any testing done. I know that if there is a problem I would consider having a CVS or amnio done, but I don't know what to think just yet. Any help/advice will be helpful- I'm feeling very alone tonight

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

As a healthy 28 year old with no family history that would have caused reason for the testing, I had the AFP triple screen blood test. I just wanted to be sure and I knew there was a chance of a false positive. All other testing we opted out of (cystic fibrosis, etc) and we did not do the Nuchal fold ultrasound.

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

I am 27 and also have no family history on either side of downs, spina bifa, or other problems like that. My dr told me that the ultra screen was a test that had to be done... I also had to speak with a genetic counselor And then depending on how the test came back then I had to make a choice if I wanted more testing done .. When you speak to the genetic counselor he/she will calm your nerves, because I was very nervous also.. Everything came out fine and I am now 34 weeks..... Good Luck...

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

For me, if its just a sonogram or a blood test at no risk to the baby, then I am fine with getting it done. I am NOT willing to get the amnio. But its a very personal decision that only you and your husband can choose.

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

No test HAS to be done. You always have a choice. I have never heard of going to a genetic counclors office without there being a real need- such as a family issue or scary test results.

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

I am a healthy 28 year old with no family history of CF, SB or Downs. I did genetic testing before I got pregnant. I just wanted to be sure- which was just a blood test. I also did the AFP test, which was negative. I was glad I did because it gave me some peace of mind.

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

I am 29, no birth defects, or downs in my family. The only blood genetic disease we have is Thalsemmia which I was tested before way before PG.

like michele said, no test is mandatory. You are in charge. I did not get an ultrascreen, and I also opted not to take the AFP/triplescreen test. I would not do an amnio nor terminate my pregnancy in the end. DH and I both decided this was the best course for us. It's really a personal decision.

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

I woud suggest having the Nuchal Translucency test (aka the Ultrascreen). Its not harmful to you or baby and even if you arent worried about the baby having any problems, it is a really great chance for you to see your little one. I loved seeing my baby when I had the Ultrascreen done, he/she was flipped and jumping all over, it was so cool. We get so few sonos to begin with, it's nice to see the baby again.

My family history made me want to have a lot of testing done, but not the amnio.

If you feel that you would not terminate the pregnancy regardless of the test results, then dont have them done....except, like I said, the Ultrascreen because its a great way to get a peak at your baby.

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

I'm having the Nuchal Translucency done in 2 weeks, I'll be a little over 12 weeks. I'm having it done at my doctor's office. DH and I agreed that this would be the only test we have done.

Like MrsJ said, I'm looking forward to seeing the little one again!!

Re: 1st trimester testing- kinda long

I had the ultrascreen done and it does not have a high rate of false positives. It is actually very accurate. I will also be getting an AFP done this month.