Opinions on quad testing?

Question

I am almost 10 weeks. I need to decide by next week according to my midwife whether or not to have quad testing done. I've read that it is not very accurate and only calculates risk, nothing definitive.

I am 99% sure I would not follow with amniocentesis as I feel it is quite invasive. And I worry that an indication of a higher risk may only serve to increasing my anxiety throughout the rest of this pregnancy, which is my first.

I am 30 years old so not high risk according to age. But I did take a medication that could cause birth defects for many years, however I was off for 7+ months before conceiving. So I feel confident after speaking with my midwife and pharmacist that it was completely out of my system. And I am not even sure this would be indicated on such a test.

Can the ultrasound at 18 weeks for sex determine abnormalities? Has anyone regretted having the quad testing done or vice versa? Thanks ahead of time! This is such a hard decision.

Answer

Hey! I'm also 30 and have an 18 month old and currently 22 weeks pregnant with #2. I decided against the quad testing for both of my pregnancies for pretty much the same reasons you are concerned about. I didn't want the added stress or anxiety of a test that has a moderately high rate of being inaccurate in terms of medical testing. I also didn't feel that it was a factor that would have changed how or if I carried out my pregnancy. There was also not any genetic concerns on either side. I just didn't feel there was a enough benefit of the test to risk the unnecessary stress and anxiety. While the amnio is more accurate, I totally agree that it is a bit too invasive and while a small risk, still a risk of miscarriage. They used to only offer the quad testing for patients 35 and older but now by law have to offer it to everyone. At the 20 week fetal scan they do check all the organs for developement and the spinal developement. Thankfully both of mine have came back perfect so I'm not entirely positive what indicators they look for but I do know they look.😁 I think you just have to do whatever will make you the most comfortable and cause the least amount of stress.

Opinions on quad testing?

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