Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Answers we didn't expect

Well, we went to the doctor's office yesterday to get our results from the DNA analysis. There's a lot of science, so I'm going to give a short version and a long version.

Short version: Basically, we had a partial molar pregnancy (which is similar but different from a full molar pregnancy). As a result, we can't try to get pregnant again for a full year. During that time, Darbi will have regular blood tests to make sure there is no molar tissue left in her body after the miscarriage. Molar tissue can be dangerous if any is left behind. It's not a serious risk, but it's important enough that we have to wait for a year. Now, if you don't want to read the scientific part, you can skip to the prayer requests...otherwise, read on.

Long version: A partial molar pregnancy happens when two sperm enter the same egg. It results in an extra DNA strand in every chromosome (so you have 3 instead of 2 in each set...it's called a triploidy). A similar issue would be Down Syndrome. Down Syndrome is a trisomy 21, which means there is an extra DNA strand on the 21st chromosome. Now imagine having an extra DNA strand on every chromosome. This obviously creates serious health issues for the baby, which is why Eve could not survive (we named her Eve...we'll make another post to explain names).

A partial molar pregnancy also has a complication. In addition to the baby, there is a growth of tissue called molar tissue. If left inside the mother, molar tissue can grow uncontrollably, which presents a health risk to the mother and any future pregnancies. In order to be sure there is no molar tissue remaining, blood tests are done weekly until beta levels in the blood reach zero. The tests are then done monthly to make sure it stays at zero. The blood tests last for a year, after which it is safe to try for another pregnancy. The good news is that with a partial molar pregnancy (as opposed to a full molar pregnancy), the risk is much smaller of any molar tissue remaining. A full molar pregnancy holds a much greater health risk, so we praise the Lord this is only a partial.

Interestingly, this only happens in 1 out of every 1000 pregnancies. We actually find this funny, since strange and odd things tend to happen to us. It's already been recommended that we play the lotto. :)

Prayer requests:
  • First and foremost, we need to trust the Lord. This is a serious exercise in patience and trust. We are praying that God will guard our hearts and minds as well as give us His peace throughout this trial. Every day (and every moment) is a struggle between the foolish thoughts of our minds (lies that destroy) and the truth of God's Word (truth that heals).
  • Pray for Darbi's health and recovery. We don't want there to be any complications, but we know that God is in control. We accept whatever He has for us, for He will give us strength to endure.

We are so grateful to all of our friends and family. We know without a doubt, your prayers carry us through each day. God has given us enormous grace and love through all of you, so we daily praise Him for you.

EDIT:   These results only pertain to our most recent miscarriage. We will still undergo other tests to determine if there are other possible causes for the two previous miscarriages.

All praise to our King,
Robert

3 comments:

  1. wow- helpful information
    i praise the Lord that you all are glorifying Him through all of this
    will definately be praying for each day

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  2. Thank you for letting God speak words of encougement and hope through you both.

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  3. Love you dear friends...and praying that our Lord will continue to guard your hearts and minds and fill you with His peace. xoxo

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