Materni T21 or Harmony Prenatal Test - anyone taken these?

[mamasee]

I am 45 years old and 6 weeks pregnant!  I'm very excited, but concerned when I read the increased risk for Down Syndrome because of my age.  I did some research online and found two tests - Materni T21 and Harmony Prenatal Test which seem to be a good option.  They are blood tests that can be done at 10 weeks and, I believe from what I'm reading, highly accurate.  Anyone have any experience with either of these tests?

[pokeyAC]

I would love to hear the info as well!  Are they widely available?

[ella'smommy]

Congratulations!!!! I did the Materni 21 test around 10 weeks, a nuchal scan (ultrasound) and then the Triple Test around 16 weeks. My OB suggested it because I turned 35 during the pregnancy and that's the threshold for concern over chromosomal abnormalities, and when she told me at was an alternative to an amnio I was on board. My tests came back normal, which was very reassuring because at my 20 week ultrasound they noticed that the baby either has a very small umbilical hernia or omphalocele (which can be associated with genetic abnormalities). The results from the earlier tests make it far less likely that it is anything more than that, and saved me from having to do an amnio (which they still offered) but I declined because of the confidence from the earlier tests. I'm glad I had this less invasive option.

Hope that helps, and wishing you a happy and healthy pregnancy!!!

[bebelove]

My friend did this test, which was a great way to get the test done early and not have to take the risk with amnio or CVS. I am really wanting to do this test too, and am looking for a good OB that knows something about it! The last one I saw had no idea, which sort of cocnerned me? Anyway, let me know if you find out anything else about it!

[mamasee]

I was referred to a "Center for Genetics and Maternal-Fetal Medicine" in my town due to my age.  They knew exactly what the test is because it is their specialty.  So, you could ask around about genetic/maternal-fetal specialists in your area to see if you can find someone who knows what it is.  It is basically a blood draw, so in a sense any lab could do it and then send it to the right place for analysis, but, of course, it is not that simple - you might have to do some legwork to find someone who knows what you are talking about.  Good luck!  I have my test in three weeks so I'll let you know how it goes or if I learn more.