What you need to know about 12 week NT scans

Pre natal testing is a hot topic in mother’s groups around the world currently, and with good reason.

Whether you are pro choice or pro life (or like many, just plain open to education because it’s never been an issue we have had to consider) this affects our friends, communities, and society in general.

Taking prenatal testing for granted, is beyond question at this point in first world countries. Mothers in their ‘due-in groups’ daily utter the phrase ‘I’m only getting testing to see the baby, it’s an opportunity for an extra ultrasound.’

It’s also an opportunity to be told the following:

“Your baby is very likely to have multiple heart defects.”
“Your baby has signs of echogenic bowel.”
“Your baby is not developing correctly as per your original dating scan.”
“Your baby’s kidneys are retaining fluid.”

I hand chose these quotes, which were all relayed to me in person by the mothers they were told to. They were given this information presented as facts, by trained medical professionals.

In all cases, their babies were born perfectly formed, with no health issues, and one extra chromosome.

There are many so many quiet success stories, that you just don’t get to hear about, without a story breaking like baby Gammy’s. Loving homes and happy parents, well adjusted children and adults who have carved their niche in the community and own the hell out of their little piece of paradise.

Medical professionals aren’t exposed to kids like Josee (pictured above) and Parker, my son. They have no serious health issues, and therefore are unlikely to spend much time in a clinical setting as they grow older and their constant checkups slow down. He may develop some health issues later, just like my typical daughter may. After all, most disabilities are acquired, and 10% of the global population has one or more disability at some point in their lives.

Yes, we have a lot of medical appointments and therapy for the first few years. So will your husband or wife or OTHER children if they ever had an accident (most disabilities are acquired, not congenital) or when your life partner is older, and their body starts to shut down with as they age. How does your knowledge on disabilities truly affect how you feel about bringing a neurotypical child into the world as a ‘better’ option?

Think before you say yes to an NT scan. You need to already have outcomes decided- based on EDUCATING yourself. Not fear. The only thing to fear is fear itself- which can easily be born in ignorance.

Life is a dice throw, and I will be eternally grateful I took the chance to follow my heart and have a second child.

And just know, if you have had a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome, as so so many mothers have had before you, you are not alone.

Whatever decision you choose to make: Down syndrome is mainstream. You will be exposed to ALL kids with Down syndrome in your community. They are typically entering mainstream schools as education and inclusion continues its meteoric rise.

One in 700 kids have it.

Know that you will live with Down syndrome for the rest of your life, whether you choose to keep your child or not.

Educate yourself by speaking to those truly in the know, before making your decision. Speak to other parents and siblings.

Parker Abianac, 18 months, born with no long term health issues and diagnosed at birth with Down syndrome. No prenatal testing was undertaken for Parker or his older sister.