Hi Kayla and Mrs. N,
Yes, I'm aware that NT scan is not available everywhere, partly due to there being a shortage of qualified sonographer throughout the country, according to
www.babycentre.co.uk (it's a very popular website with lots of up-to-date info). But I'm a little angry with myself for not insisting to do a NT scan, because even if I take the triple or quadruple blood test at week 16, it will only pick up about 60% of babies with DS. NT scan alone will pick up about 75%, but when you combine both screening tests, the detection rate can be as high as 90-95%. However, I only got all these info after the 1st appt with my midwife. I should have called her up about doing an integrated test (OSCAR - which combines both tests) privately, but it's too late now as I'm already into my 14th week. Nonetheless I shall discuss this issue with her when I go for my 2nd appt on Tuesday.
Well, my midwife did draw some blood at my 1st appt to test for rubella, hepatitis B, thalassaemia, etc., but I already did all these tests when I had my annual health screening in Singapore earlier this year, so I know the results will be fine.
Kayla, I wish I could transfer to your hospital if it's not for the distance. The one I go to is supposedly a comprehensive hospital for women and children, and a regional hospital for the Greater Manchester area as well, but the equipment they use...... I could hardly see the outline of my baby's arms from the monitor, let alone opening and closing of his palms! Urrghhh...... Now I have another disadvantage of public healthcare services to complain on - obviously the variety and standard of services provided are not equally distributed! And I'm already living in the 2nd largest city in the country! Urrghhh......
Yes, I will definitely go for breastfeeding, in fact, my GP/gynae encouraged me to do it for a year if possible, so that the baby can benefit from it as much as possible; she BF her 2 daughters for a year too. I think the BM will only start flowing after you deliver.
I have been a little lazy on the anti-stretch marks cream and haven't bought any yet. Will visit the drug stores for some soon.
I know, I'd been thinking about the childcare issue as well, but I've decided to concentrate on eating well and having a healthy baby for now, and only worry about that when the EDD draws nearer. But it should be easier for you both, since both of you have got your husband's family here.