Freaked Out by Upcoming Amino-seeking Advice and Words of Reassurance

My amnio went like this:
I definitely wanted the test, and I don't mind shots, but it was still nerve wracking. Not painful, just a big jab and a 2 minute wait while I held my breath.
The baby's heart rate is monitored the whole time, and for me the baby didn't stir or feel a thing.
There wasn't any pain afterwards either.
Call the office where the procedure will be done, and they can answer these questions (I did) the genetic counselor will speak to you beforehand anyway, and mine was VERY reassuring and nice.
Don't let the anti-testing people scare you. The risks are minimal when done by an experienced doctor. The "what will be will be" wait and find out attitude would have stressed me out MORE than having the test!

Stephani,
If you are this concerned, maybe it would be better if you waited on the proceedure?
I was 35+ w/ 3 of my kiddos (an "elderly multip" according my OB!). I chose to NOT have any testing. There are false positives, which would have made me do nothing but worry all the time. Plus, for me there would have been no change in the pregnancy status. My OB said there4 was nothing that could be found on an amnio that would change the way he delivered the baby.
That being said, everyone that I know that has had an amnio has had no problems at all either during or after the test.
Just my 2 cents!

D.

Hi Stephani,
My name is R. and I had an amnio. I am going to be honest with you...it hurt me bad. But dont get discouraged every woman is different. I had to get an amnio because one of my blood levels was off. It will not tramatize the baby in anyway and you will be able to care for your kids afterwards. I do recommend that you take someone with you. If not your husband a friend or family memeber. The best thing for you to do is to be calm and relax. This is the best thing you can do for yourself and your child!

I was 42 when I had my first and almost 44 when I had my second. I did not have amnio as I would not have aborted for any reason. I too did not like the risks to the baby. I felt these were the children I was intended to have, had already lost two during pregnancy and did not want to take any risks......they are now 13 and 14.....

Good luck!
B.

Hi, Stephani!

I opted not to do the procedure, and had to sign a release. I flat out refused once I read the risks and heard that the amnio gives a high rate of false positive. I just decided I would love whatever God allowed. I am so glad I did. The doctor was actually glad, too, adding that there was danger of injuring the baby. Sounds like they have to offer or pressure for it to protect themselves from lawsuits??? My thinking is you don't need any more stress, anyway.

If your doc is really pressuring you, get a doctor who will not add stress to your already-full plate.

Praying for you in this tough time,
B.