What is Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome (DS or DNS) is is a genetic disorder which is also known as Trisomy 21. this disorder occurs from a extra copy a chromosome, in most cases it is an extra part of chromosome 21. A chromosome is found in most living organisms which is responsible for carrying genetic information. An average Zygote (a fertilised Ovum) will have 23 pairs of chromosomes but in the case of a genetic disorder such as down syndrome, a problem will occur with the chromosomes and can cause physical …show more content…
Down Syndrome is caused by a problem arising from the chromosomes given to the baby. A Chromosome is the genes carried by the parents to be passed on to their offspring. The genes from the parents are passed through chromosomes. AS a baby cell develops these chromosomes will pair up to create 23 pairs of chromosomes. Down syndrome is caused by there being three copies of chromosome 21 instead of 2.
Option 1: Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a biotechnology test that is taken during a pregnancy which is used to detect any abnormalities happening to the foetus. This tests detects Down Syndrome, cystic fibrosis or spina bifida. it will also be able to identify if the baby will be male or female. During this procedure a fine needle is inserted to extract a small portion of amniotic fluid from the amniotic sac in the uterus surrounding the foetus. This procedure runs the risks of injury to the foetus, infections or having a miscarriage.
What occurs during an Amniocentesis Test
The entire procedure if an Amniocentesis takes on average 90 minutes.
The doctor runs a final ultrasound before the procedure begins to located the position of the foetus and the …show more content…
If any of the rare complications occur, contact doctor immediately.
Infection - Symptoms include fever
Vaginal Leakage - Amniotic fluid leaking from the vagina. It will stop and start for for two days.
Spontaneous Abortion
Rh sensitisation - In extremely rare cases the foetus’ blood cells will enter the mothers bloodstream. if the mother is Rh negative, she will develop antibodies that will attack the baby’s blood cells
Injury to the baby - The needle used will touch a part of the baby
Cramping or vaginal bleeding
Benefits of Amniocentesis
Only test that identifies and diagnoses several health issues while the foetus is still in the womb
99% of women who take this test have accurate results
Identifies whether the baby’s lung are mature enough for early delivery if the mother happens to be in premature labour
This test allows the parent/s to be prepared for the unborn baby’s needs
Option 2: Carry on with the pregnancy as is
Risks of Carrying on with Pregnancy as is:
Symptoms of Heart Disease After birth
Shortness of Breath
Swelling around ankles, feet, torso and around the neck
Difficulty