We had our NT scan last week and the results are within the normal range. It took almost an hour to get the measurements as she/he was having hiccups for some time and then started stretching. We could see legs and arms and a big belly :)
Right after the NT scan we spoke to a genetic counselor which was part of the process. She went over our family history and any genetic conditions that are likely to affect the baby. One thing that was brought into attention was my 'high DHEAS' problem. During my infertility treatment I went to a medical endocrinologist to find the cause for high androgens (high DHEAS). To keep it short this was our finding - after several blood tests we found that my adrenal gland does not function normally. Genetically I am missing a certain enzyme that would regulate our Cortisol and DHEAS levels. Due to the missing enzyme my DHEAS levels are high which causes hyperandrogenism which is also regarded as PCOS.
I was put on Dexamethasone which regulates androgens externally. I was asked to stop taking it from 12 weeks as it would affect/suppress adrenal gland of the baby. This is a genetic disorder and there are good chances of passing it to my children. So coming back to our conversation with the genetic counselor, she offered us genetic testing for this disorder. It doesn't really matter if I am having a boy since this disorder does not affect males (they are designed to have high androgens). But if I am having a girl we need to be cautious. We are not sure if there are any medical interventions during pregnancy to reverse it. Our plan is to have this reviewed with our medical endocrinologist in two weeks. I really hope I don't pass on this disorder to my baby....
My first trimester symptoms have all faded now. I no longer have any aversions to food or nausea. I have already gained 7 pounds and I am not on Metformin so my diet has to be devoid of refined grains. Two days back, we went shopping after work and when I got home I noticed that my feet and ankles were swollen. That really scared the hell out of me. I called up my doctor. She says it could be edema and happens if we are on our feet all day and if the weather is too hot. She asked me to double my water intake and put my legs up whenever possible. The swelling has reduced now but I still have a swollen ankle. Did anyone experience this so early in pregnancy? I hope it’s just edema and not something related to preeclampsia.
