I also had amniocentesis with my first pregnancy at age 37. Perhaps it was the time, or the fact that the testing was done at Georgetown University Hospital, but we told the screening doctor in no uncertain terms that we were not about to abort a Downs Syndrome baby, while he simultaneously assured us that there was no way Georgtown would provide the abortion.
The only reason for having the test and getting the results was to provide the time that even Gov Palin admitted she needed to prepare herself for the reality of having and raising a Downs Syndrome baby. With a ‘high risk’ pregnancy, I do think it helps to know what lies ahead.
I can certainly understand that rational for knowing, but I just didn’t want to know. I think I figured that the challenges would be there regardless and I was already nervous about it as it was.
I think it’s a matter of choice, but other than seeing those who have Downs Syndrome baby as “cruel”, I see them as heroes.