update 4/28: After much thought and deliberation, I decided to waive my consult with the perinatologist. I understand this whole thing is truly in God's hands and there isn't anything anyone can tell me that will change the outcome at this point. what will be, will be. We will simply trust in God's plan for our family and hope that this kiddo has a long, happy, healthy life.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
update 4/21: I called the doctor this morning to gather more information. I spoke with the nurse who confirmed my measurements were just above average. She said based on my risk assessment, negative First Screen results and previous ultrasound results, the chances of having a baby with Down's Syndrome around 1 in 6000. She also indicated that the primary reason for concern with enlarged ventricles is due to the baby having Hydrocephalus. Not much better than Down's Syndrome in my book as I have worked with a number of these children as well. I won't get into the issues involved here either and just hope that we won't ever have to go there. We were referred to a perinatologist who will give us further information on our specific case. I am not sure I feel this is necessary given the fact that there is nothing we can do until the baby is born anyway. Until then, I will keep praying that I am just being the excessive worrier that I am and nothing more than becoming overly informed on possibilities that won't impact our family. Boy it is quite a load to bear. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. I am sure you are all right in that there is nothing to worry about, but again, when possibilities/risks are raised with your child, you can't help but worry :)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------chris, claire and i went for our 35 week ultrasound today. it was confirmed, once again, we will be blessed with a little girl. chris is feeling my dad's pain or so he thinks. ha. we've got a couple more girls to go before that truly happens. anyway, nearly everything looked good, but her ventricles in her brain are a bit enlarged. dr. b. indicated that this is not uncommon later in pregnancy and the measurement of 11 mm is just above average (1-10mm). however, she was going to check with the radiologist and get their recommendation for another ultrasound or to wait and check out the kiddo upon birth. i got the call later this afternoon that they'd like me to have another ultrasound before my next appointment in two weeks. although dr. b. tried to assure us there was nothing to worry about at this point, i can't help but do so. i am a worrier by nature. i think it is a middle child quality. anyway, upon doing some research, it appears that enlarged ventricles are a sign/symptom of chromosomal abnormalities such as down syndrome. previous ultrasounds and the ATP test have been normal, so we are hoping this is simply a case of a miscalculation. obviously, we will love this baby unconditionally, but i fear i know too much about quality of life and the difficult road for children with disabilities. i guess this story will unfold in the weeks ahead.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
update 4/21: I called the doctor this morning to gather more information. I spoke with the nurse who confirmed my measurements were just above average. She said based on my risk assessment, negative First Screen results and previous ultrasound results, the chances of having a baby with Down's Syndrome around 1 in 6000. She also indicated that the primary reason for concern with enlarged ventricles is due to the baby having Hydrocephalus. Not much better than Down's Syndrome in my book as I have worked with a number of these children as well. I won't get into the issues involved here either and just hope that we won't ever have to go there. We were referred to a perinatologist who will give us further information on our specific case. I am not sure I feel this is necessary given the fact that there is nothing we can do until the baby is born anyway. Until then, I will keep praying that I am just being the excessive worrier that I am and nothing more than becoming overly informed on possibilities that won't impact our family. Boy it is quite a load to bear. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. I am sure you are all right in that there is nothing to worry about, but again, when possibilities/risks are raised with your child, you can't help but worry :)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------chris, claire and i went for our 35 week ultrasound today. it was confirmed, once again, we will be blessed with a little girl. chris is feeling my dad's pain or so he thinks. ha. we've got a couple more girls to go before that truly happens. anyway, nearly everything looked good, but her ventricles in her brain are a bit enlarged. dr. b. indicated that this is not uncommon later in pregnancy and the measurement of 11 mm is just above average (1-10mm). however, she was going to check with the radiologist and get their recommendation for another ultrasound or to wait and check out the kiddo upon birth. i got the call later this afternoon that they'd like me to have another ultrasound before my next appointment in two weeks. although dr. b. tried to assure us there was nothing to worry about at this point, i can't help but do so. i am a worrier by nature. i think it is a middle child quality. anyway, upon doing some research, it appears that enlarged ventricles are a sign/symptom of chromosomal abnormalities such as down syndrome. previous ultrasounds and the ATP test have been normal, so we are hoping this is simply a case of a miscalculation. obviously, we will love this baby unconditionally, but i fear i know too much about quality of life and the difficult road for children with disabilities. i guess this story will unfold in the weeks ahead.
Comments
lOVE YA,
Jessica
Hugs and Kisses to all of you.
Love ya,
Jessica
Nicole
Im glad that you have gotten more information (sometimes too much is more dangerous though). Please keep us updated with what you learn. Wishing and praying for you :)
Chris I now understand your reaction to our conversation sunday. I wish I would have known, I would have chosen better words. I wish you the best.
Kara sorry to hear about your grandmother. You are right she is in a better place. love you guys