42 and surprised

[jodycat]

I am 42 with a healthy 6 year old daughter. I just found out I am pregnant and haven't made the dr appt yet..., I was wondering how soon the penta/chromosome testing can be done?

[lcgnyc]

Mazol tov!  You give me hope, as I'm in my second IVF cycle.  

There are two tests I'm aware of:  the CVS and the amnio.  The CVS test is performed earlier.  

Good luck!

[Higgins1107]

The testing is done at 16-18 wks...

[adgal]

I just had a healthy boy at 40 (a week before my 41st actually).  The first trimester screen is typically done around 12-13 weeks.  I opted for amnio as my first trimester screen came back 1:13 for DS and all was well.  He is now 7 months old and fabulous!!!

[quattro70]

I am 40 and pregnant with my second son.  We had genetic counseling with this baby (I am 27 weeks) done at 10 weeks, I think.  With bloodwork and a high frequency ultrasound, they were able to tell us this baby is only at a 1 in 1500 chance of having downs syndrome.  No further testing (CVS or amnio) was recommended.  Ask your Ob to refer to you to a high risk OB for genetic screening.  I think blood work alone has alot of false positives (meaning it will make you think you are at risk when your baby is not) So I would strongly recommend the high resolution ultrasound too to keep you from having an unnecessary procedure.  Best Wishes for a healthy baby!!!!!!

[jamrock1971]

Congrats! age is just a number my big sis just found out shes expecting at the age of 41,good luck!

[jodycat]

Thanks, I know many many women are having troubles, but... oh my goodness!  I had Uterine embolization a year before I discovered I was pregnant with my daughter. Pregnancy was easy, the delivery turned into a disaster when my uterus spasmed and pressed the cord between the remaining fibroid and my daughter... We are very lucky and blessed... I had not even imagined getting pregnant again... Now I know to insist loudly on a csection this time but the age issue is worrisome.  My guy is feeling pretty manly now after the initial shock is wearing off and we can even laugh about finally arriving at grade school and starting all over again...

[mjmom69]

It will be in the 1st trimester I believe, but don't worry. Lots of women our age have perfectly healthy babies. Congratulations!