Q for moms who had amnio

[sleepless_mom]

Are they able to do the 20 week anatomy scan in conjunction with the amnio (I'm at 17 weeks) or do you need to go back and have another anatomical ultrasound at 20 weeks?

My understanding is that they do a full anatomical scan prior to the amnio. Has anyone just done the amnio scan or has everyone had to go back AGAIN? I guess I'm just so tired of all this testing.

[AshleysMom]

Hi - I had a full Level 2 scan right before my amnio at around 16 weeks.  They checked all the organs, limbs, etc.

My doctors claim 1 in 1600 risk for mc with both amnio or CVS. Much lower than they originally thought.  

I opted to go straight for the amnio, and I'm glad I did for the peace of mind.  Also, I'm not sure what I would do if they found something.  I thank God all the time that I don't have to make that decision.

Best of luck to you.

[Fourpaws]

Yes they did check everything and ot all came out perfect. The doctor was even able to see the pupils???? It was amzing. I wasn't going to do the amnio because everything looked great. The doctor said the u/s isn't a 100% guarantee though. I really could tell my hubby was really stressed about it. You see, I wouldn't terminate my pregnancy even if she has downs, but I know my hubby wanted to be prepared if she did/does. It was really bothering him. So I agreed to the amnio just to make him feel at ease. I was/am in denial, I figure if there is something wrong I would definately find out at birth right? I had the amnio on Monday and I get my results on Friday. The amnio went fine without any complications. I had a little cramping which is normal. My doctor has done about 2000 amnios without any complications, so I felt pretty comfortable with him. My numbers are 1 in 154 for downs.
My doctor checked the size of her head, brain, length of leg bones, arm bones, checked the fluid behind the neck and also checked the kidneys. I guess if a baby has downs the kidneys function abnormally- he said the blood flow looked great. I have a good feeling everything is fine and I know the amnio has given my hubby a lot of relief. He likes to be prepared for things. He takes great care of me and our family so he deserved that much.

[sleepless_mom]

I'm definitely going in for the ultrasound, but haven't decide about the amnio. Part of it just seems wrong to me, puncturing my baby's little safety bubble. I know amnios usually go just fine, but something in my gut is saying don't do it. And what can you really do with the info... it's a choice I don't feel prepared to make. But raising a downs child as a SMBC while trying to maintain stability for my four year old also is a weighty decision.

[nylena]

The ''full anatomical scan'' or ''2nd level'' or ''anomaly scan'' can be done from 18w to 22w+...( I had it done at 21w) where they measure everything in great detail and look for down ''soft markers''.They re-assess your risk factor-if you already been given one at 12w during the nt.If they find any ds markers ,they may suggest amnio which can be combined with the u/s.Are you having one for sure or just thinking about it?

[Tennesseegirl]

there are a few markers... heart, neck,eyes, and something els... I forget. I wish they would of done a ultrasound on my 20w. they just listen to the heartbeat and I was done. they combined all during my amnio at 17w. I would love to get to see her again.

[sleepless_mom]

Hi Fourpaws
Did they do a full anatomical scan at your 17.6 wk appoint? Brain, heart, organs, etc?
What are the markers for DS they look for in the scan?

THX

[Fourpaws]

I had the level 2 u/s at 17.6 weeks at my perinatologist for Downs. I found out the sex. I go back to my reg ob/gyn on the 4th for the anatomy scan. Even though I already know the sex, I thinks it's fun to see the baby doing king-fu!! So I am excited o go back so soon, so is hubby. I'll be about 20-21 weeks then.