Down Syndrome Questions
Having a child is a huge responsibility. Even before the child is born there are things that expectant parents must do to ensure that their child is safe. But there are occasions and conditions that cannot be avoided. Down syndrome is not picky on what infant it strikes. It does not know socioeconomic barriers and there is no cure. But there is hope for that child and his or her parents. Unlike the past, many children with this genetic disorder can still lead fulfilling lives. Thanks to new treatment options and available education, parents can help their child make it in this world. This article will cover some of the basics of this disorder and hopefully shed a little light on any questions you may have.
Are there risk factors for having a baby with Down syndrome?
There is always a risk when having a baby. There are so many things that can go wrong for the mother and the child. A baby with Down's syndrome may have a higher risk of miscarriage than another that does not have the genetic condition. The reason is that Down's children frequently have other medical conditions to worry about. The child may have a congenital heart defect or other physical condition that could jeopardize his or her life. The risk is not so much for the mother as it is for the child.
Why does the maternal age have so much to do with the increased risk for having a child with Down syndrome?
Researchers have discovered that the risk of having a Down syndrome child does increase as the mother gets older. Women under twenty-four have a 1 in 1562. As the maternal age increases so too does the chance for having a child with Down's. A woman that is over forty-five has a 1 in 19 chance. It has recently been shown that the paternal age can be an influencing factor as well. For all of this research though on maternal and paternal age, 80% of Down's syndrome cases occur in young mothers. This is perhaps due to the problems with fertility as you age.
Does a Down syndrome child need specialized care?
Yes, most Down syndrome children will need specialized care. The child may have a speech problem and need to work with a speech therapist. The child may have poor muscle tone and have to work with a physical therapist. If there are emotional barriers, the parents have to work with the child to help them adjust to school and different emotional situations that may arise. Many Down's syndrome children have physical problems that have to be constantly monitored such as congenital heart defects. With the right treatment and care the child can learn to be full functioning as an adult. Some individuals with this genetic condition can even live by themselves and hold down jobs. It is even possible for them to marry and have a family.
How severe is the retardation associated with Down syndrome?
The mental retardation associated with Down syndrome varies from child to child. It can be quite pronounced with a mental IQ of less than 35. Mild retardation is classified by an IQ score of 50-70. The only way to find out the extent of the child's mental facilities is through testing. Some parents want to know and others prefer not to subject their children to further testing just to classify the mental abilities.
Related topics about down syndrome
people with down syndrome
All people with Down syndrome can't be expected to be math wizards or complete high school social studies exams. However, early integration for Down syndrome children is extremely important in helping them achieve successes and set realistic goals. Being exposed to many different subjects and hobbies is also important, as Down syndrome research suggests, since many are prodigies in art or music.
down syndrome
Down syndrome affects roughly 1/1,000 American babies. While it's every parent's worst nightmare to receive a Down syndrome diagnosis, 75% of all parents with a Down syndrome child will tell you the experience was ultimately extremely rewarding. Raising any child is never easy and raising a developmentally disabled child will certainly require more patience.
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Parents of children with Down syndrome are flooded with a barrage of emotions. They may experience disappointment, anger, grief, frustration, fear and anxiety. Mothers over the age 35, who have a higher chance of having a baby with Down syndrome, may experience guilt or self-blame.