The blood test for my second pregnancy showed that the baby I was carrying was high risk for chromosomal abnormalities. Just like my first pregnancy, I was given the option of going for amniocentesis to check whether the baby had abnormal chromosome number. We went ahead with the procedure, wanting to be sure what we were expecting.
Three weeks of waiting for the results was trying. The same old worries, the same old pessimism. We prayed. Still, my faith was weak. This was one of the reasons that kept me from wanting no. 2 for some time. After what it seemed to be an indefinite standstill, the news came. A boy with 46 chromosomes. Thank God.
I went for the usual 20-week ultrasound scan the following day. I thought all was well until the scan showed that the baby had single umbilical artery (SUA). A normal umbilical cord has 2 arteries and 1 vein. Mine has 1 artery and 1 vein. Implication? The baby may suffer congenital defects and low birth weight. This condition is 0.2 – 1% occurrence amongst pregnant women. Doc said that the baby’s heart and kidneys appeared normal at that stage but he would like to do another thorough scan at 32 weeks. I felt really somber. Told Yang to delay his application to his old boys’ association to secure a place for the boy at his alma mater in case our no. 2 needs to attend special school.
I know I should be thankful in all circumstances. And that I should not be in such a state of disquiet. But let me take time to sort out my feelings and life perspectives with God and hopefully be content for the rest of the pregnancy.
Ling,
My prayers are with you. I know at this moment, no matter what people say, I know, your son’s health is still at the top of your mind. As a mother, all we want is to have our children be healthy for life. I really do not know what to say at this moment but the only thing I can do is to pray in faith with you.
Hi Theresa,
Thank you for understanding what I’m going through. And thank you for your prayers too. I’m feeling a bit stronger and positive now. Learning to let go and trust in His loving hand.
The details of these tests baffle me – no. of chromosomes and even no. of arteries. Woah. Now I’m glad I didn’t do any of these in my pregnancies except for the blood test required for hospital admission.
But yes, learn to trust.
Ling, Greetings for the new Lunar Year. It is disheartening to read this post, and I can only imagine your worries and concerns. Do pray for ongoing faith that will strengthen both you and bub as you journey together. I too will remember you both in my prayers. Take good care!
Thank you for your encouragement and prayers, Anna. I’m feeling less worrisome now. In fact, I’m starting to forget about the SUA thingy.
Have a great CNY with your family too :)