Wednesday, October 6, 2010

A Girl

I found out today that our baby was a girl, with abnormal chromosomes resulting in monsomy X, which is consistent with Turner Syndrome. She had 45 x chromosomes in stead of the normal 46.
The doctor explained all the facts and that it is nothing caused by either Adam or myself nor will it increase our chances of it occurring again.  The doctor said that it is common to miscarry in this situation and that while some with Turner syndrome carry to full term,  the majority (99%) end like ours did.  She said in a way it’s a blessing.
Here is a quick explanation:
Monosomy X, commonly known as Turner Syndrome, is a chromosome disorder in which a girl or woman has only one complete X chromosome. (Because a Y chromosome is needed for a person to be male, all babies with Turner Syndrome are girls.) Though girls born with Turner Syndrome usually have good odds for a normal life, the majority of babies with the condition are lost to miscarriage or stillbirth.
About 1 in every 1,500 to 2,500 newborn babies has Turner Syndrome. Yet according to research, monosomy X is present in about 3% of all conceptions, but about 99% of affected babies are miscarried or stillborn. The condition is thought to be a factor in roughly 15% of all miscarriages. (about.com)
Turner Syndrome in girls:
Girls with Turner syndrome are usually short in height. Girls with Turner syndrome who aren't treated for short stature reach an average height of about 4 feet 7 inches (1.4 meters). The good news is that when Turner syndrome is diagnosed while a girl is still growing, she can be treated with growth hormones to help her grow taller.
In addition to growth problems, Turner syndrome prevents the ovaries from developing properly, which affects a girl's sexual development and the ability to have children. Because the ovaries are responsible for making the hormones that control breast growth and menstruation, most girls with Turner syndrome will not go through all of the changes associated with puberty unless they get treatment for the condition. Nearly all girls with Turner syndrome will be infertile, or unable to become pregnant on their own. (Kidshealth.com)

 











Recognize her? She has Turner Syndrome.

It feels good to have some closure, to know the cause of my miscarriage, but at the same time knowing it was a girl makes it all more real.  I’m glad I know though.  Also the doctor said that everything seemed fine after my post-op check up and that we can try again in a month or so.   So here’s to luck in the future with 46 Chromosomes :)

1 comment:

  1. I'm so sorry to hear about your latest discovery! :( But, what a blessing that you know and that you can prepare for it! Good luck dear!

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