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Questions and Answers

Q. How accurate is the amniocentesis for detecting Down's syndrome? I'm 40 and had the test at 16 weeks, the dr said the test results showed everything was fine, but I still tend to worry about the results!!

Debbie

A. If your amnio report came back okay then you can relax and enjoy your pregnancy. In my 18 yrs. in the newborn nursery I have seen lots of "older" moms give birth and the far majority have had perfectly healthy, normal babies. I know that studies show more problems and a higher incidence of Downs Syndrome with an older mother but it sounds as if you are carrying a beautiful, healthy baby. Trust the results and start preparing that nursery!

Cyndi Klausing, RN, ACCE, has been a childbirth educator and breastfeeding counselor for over 18 years. She currently works as a newborn nursery nurse and is the mother of four sons.

Cyndi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.