WHAT TO EXPECT
During my last scan we were told that our baby has Down syndrome. After getting over the initial shock, we feel that this child is so wanted and loved. What can I expect though from the first few months? This is my third child, but for this situation I don’t feel like an experienced mom at all.
DR KARBANEE ANSWERS: Down syndrome or trisomy 21 is the commonest chromosomal abnormality affecting approximately one in 700 newborns. There are many features of Down syndrome that can be picked up during pregnancy, and screening for Down is readily available. The screening is offered mostly in high risk cases of which the commonest is an older expectant mom.
As you point out, the diagnosis is indeed a major shock, and parents have to face the choice of carrying on with the pregnancy or not. This is an intensely personal decision and should be carefully considered after discussion with all involved as well as the medical team.
Babies affected by Down syndrome have a higher risk of abnormalities affecting multiple systems of the body. The newborn will require a cardiac assessment as well as blood tests to ensure the body’s systems are functioning normally. Feeding can be a problem, as low muscle tone is associated with trisomy 21. The best way to approach this is to ensure the medical team is involved often, as regular follow-ups and checkups will be important.
Raising a child with trisomy 21 is challenging. The entire family dynamic will be affected, and high levels of support and understanding are essential. The needs of the child will be different to those of other children and will require everyone to adjust accordingly. Developmental milestones will be delayed, so expect the baby to sit and crawl much later than normal. Children with Down syndrome tend to have a pleasant personality and are often a delight to the family. Special schooling will be necessary as well as ongoing visits for physiotherapy and possibly occupational and speech therapy.
The paediatrician will co-ordinate the care of the child and ensure the health of the child is optimised. ●