So, the triple screen test. During Friday's appointment, we were asked if we had decided to move forward with this testing option. Originally, I thought I would go ahead with the test because there's no harm in drawing a little blood, right? Then I did some reading about the triple screen, which helps estimate the chances of a child being born with various birth defects. What I found out was that the test tends to be around 60% accurate when an abnormal result is given. So basically I could get an abnormal result, then have to either freak out with worry for the rest of the pregnancy, or go through a potentially harmful amniocentesis procedure. We discussed these things with our doctor, and he said in his experience, the abnormal triple screen results are almost always inaccurate, 4 out of 5! After hearing this, I feel my risk of a miscarriage during an amnio procedure (about 1 in 400 chance) is outweighing the benefit of "knowing" (but not really knowing for certain).
It would be a real tragedy to have our child be born with down syndrome or spina bifida. And if I were in a higher risk category, then we would probably reconsider our decision to pass on the testing. But neither of us have a family history of birth defects, I'm not diabetic on insulin, I haven't had a viral infection while pregnant, I don't work around high levels of radiation, and I don't use drugs. The only risk factor I have is my "advanced maternal age" of 35. We are passing on the triple screen test and the amnio for now. The doctor not only supported our decision, but completely agreed that the inaccuracy of the triple screen test tends to cause more harm with worry than anything else.
I'm still gonna worry, I just don't need to feed it more than my late night googling sessions already do.
It's funny that 35 is considered "advanced maternal age" when you read stories about 60 year old women getting pregnant; or people Jack Nicholson's age impregnating someone. It would be called "actually ready for children maternal age"
ReplyDeleteHa. I know, it's so weird to be considered "advanced" in age for having a kid. I can't imagine having a child when I was in my twenties.
ReplyDeleteLet me also add that even "passing" the triple screen doesn't necessarily give one a feeling that you can forgo the late night googling sessions either. I agree...that test was pointless...passing doesn't guarantee smooth sailing.
ReplyDeleteI hear you. If it were more accurate, and if an amnio wasn't with risk, then I would probably get it done. Of course I would rather know if our baby has a birth defect, but I don't need more reasons to obsess about it if I can't know without potentially miscarrying.
ReplyDeleteWe passed on this testing both times as well and for the same reasons. Why risk it and worry over something you can't control? Keep on doing what you're doing! You look awesome! :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Charlie!
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