To test or not to test?

[megansmom]

I have been thinking about having the tests done for all of the underlying conditions that might cause pe. My doctor did not recommend that I have them done. He usually doesn't order them unless you have had more than one miscarriage. But I've been thinking that if I do happen to have some kind of disorder, why wait to have a miscarriage to find out right? He said he would order them if I wanted to do it. Also, my uncle was a hemophiliac, a fact which I had forgotten until my mother brought it up recently. It just has me wondering, should I go ahead and have the tests done and be better safe than sorry? I will probably have to pay for the tests myself since I have not met my deductible for the year, but it might be worth it for the peace of mind. Does anyone know how much these tests cost? Just not sure what I should do....

~Amanda
Mama to Megan, severe PE with mild HELLP at 34 wks

Thinking about TTC later this year

[angelkat]

Amanda...

I would test just to have all your cards on the table and know from the start what you are looking at.

I don't know how much the testing would cost....

Hugs
~T
Moderator Grief and Loss
Mommy to
Drew(14)PE 37 wks
Ky (12)PE 34 wks
~i~ Katlyne(12/9/02-04/02/03)25 wks
Casey - 34wks Born 7/29/04
Katlyne's Tribute Site
http://forevernetwork.com/lifestories/lifestory.cfm?Archive_ID=10971&Directory=/Archives/MountHope&Sort=V

[bridget]

HI Amanda- my doctor tested for the blood clotting disorders after I switched to him based on my experience with PIH/pre-e with my first pregnancy. They all came back basically normal, but since the 3 mc we are going to repeat the tests ( I think some values can change). I am guessing it is pretty expensive since they take about 14 vials of blood and send them away to California (at least here they do). I think if you are able to pay for it or if insurance covers it, I would go ahead and request the testing. The medical profession has recently started to understand how these blood clotting factors can influence pe, miscarriage, etc. I have heard of many people using heparin (on these boards and around town), and end up with healthy pregnancies and babies. As T said, having all your cards on the table will make you more informed for your next pregnancy.

Good luck!

Bridget
DS 06/02 (39 weeks, pe, postpartum hemorrhage)
m/c 11/03, 05/04, 07/04
TTC #2 very soon

[maxs mom]

Amanda,
I think if you are thinking about it, you should go for it. It sounds like you won't put your mind at ease until you know the answers.
Kara

Kara (34)
DH, John (36)
Max, 1/20/03, 25 wks, 534g. (IUGR), severe PE
http://www.babiesonline.com/babies/m/mightymax/

[for faith]

Amanda ~ I agree about getting the tests, for me it has helped ease my mind and feel like I have a little more control. Being the best informed is all we can do, as we all have experienced we don't have control over what may happen. Best of luck either way.

Jill
mommy to:
Tyler - 4 (36 wks, PIH (just told by peri it was mild PE))
Angel baby - 1/20/03 (11 wks)
Faith Kristine - 1/5/04-1/30/04 (30 weeks due to severe PE, passed due to NEC & Sepsis(preemie complications))

trying for #2 to share our lives with since 9/02