Genetic counseling - older mothers

Ah, I see!  But then why go for genetic testing at all, since the Church also forbids terminating a pregnancy if the baby has abnormalities?  Besides which, genetic testing can only provide information about certain disorders.  So many others - autism, some forms of cerebral palsy, learning disabilities, etc. 

I'm just curious.  I'm Catholic myself, but have opted not to go for any genetic testing (I am under 35) w/either of these pregnancies b/c terminating is not an option for me personally.  I trust that God will not give us more than we can handle and it will all work out how it is supposed to in the end. 

Just my 2p.

I totally understand and I agree 100%.  We would never consider terminating a pregnancy either, regardless of the circumstances.  I belive it is still important emotionally to know ahead of time if we are to have a child who will require special care/needs.  Knowing would give us the opportunity to prepare ourselves emotionally as well as educate ourselves about a condition and know what we would need to be ready for and have in place as soon as the baby arrives.  Perhaps it's the Project Manager in me, but I like to know my risk before I get into a project. 

~Liza

The thing that got me is the miscarriage risk associated with some of the tests.  I know it's slim, but it does happen and for me I wasn't willing to take the chance.  So I just declined all of them.  But it's different for every woman and something she should discuss with her healthcare providers.

So many special needs aren't realised till the child is 2+ years old.  Our daughter, for example, was late with many of her gross motor skills, although born seemingly healthy.  And we're just now gotten the all-clear from the pediatricians and physiotherapists that she is neurotypical.  She's very laid-back and contented, and just goes her own pace.

We learned quickly to go w/the flow when it comes to having kids.  They're their own separate person.  Of course, whilst pregnant and vomiting, they're very much a part of you  .

The thing that got me is the miscarriage risk associated with some of the tests.  I know it's slim, but it does happen and for me I wasn't willing to take the chance. 

Yes - this would have to be a discussion point for us and our doctor to be sure.  I don't know that I would want to take that risk either. 

Honestly, I think I'm worrying too much about it.  I previously was "married" for 11 years and was unable to conceive.  Not knowing if it will even happen at all for me now, and that if/when it does I will be in my 40's sort of freaks me out.     I need to not think about it so much and focus on the stuff I can control - which in reality is nothing, but you know what I mean.    In the mean time I'll ask a zillion questions and try to be as ready as I can I guess.

~Liza