The doctor began, "So, let's start with the basics. As you already know, an amniocentesis is a procedure where I take a long, thin needle and insert it through your uterus to collect a couple tablespoons of amniotic fluid. I can get a nice karyotype from this fluid which will show us if your babies have certain genetic disorders. Since you two both carry the LCA gene, there might be others, which is why I'm recommending this test. Any questions so far?"
Angela and Jack took a few seconds to process what the doctor had just told them, and then Angela asked, "How badly does it hurt?"
"Well, it depends on the person and the procedure, really. Most women say it is slightly uncomfortable, but not unbearable. I wouldn't know, though, since I've never had one!" The doctor joked.
Angela let out a feigned laugh, and motioned for the doctor to continue talking.
"Alrighty. So, our main concern as far as risks would be miscarriage. It's about a 1 in 300 chance in a normal pregnancy, though it's a bit higher due to the fact that you're carrying twins. Now, the good thing is that you're at the safest point to do it; done before 15 weeks and the risk would be even higher. There's also a small chance of needle injury to one of the babies, but that rarely happens, and if it does it's hardly ever serious. You guys need to think about whether you want to take the risks, or if you're willing to wait until they're born to see."
"I think we should take some more time to discuss and decide, right Ange?" Jack asked.
"I think so too. We should talk at home and sleep on our decision, I think," Angela said, "Maybe we should ask my father and Bren what they think?"
Jack thought for a minute, "Well, Brennan would give us a very rational answer, basically just restating what the doctor told us, and your father wouldn't have too much helpful input I don't think. But we can ask them if you want."
"No, you're right. It's our decision anyway, not theirs," Angela turned to the doctor, " So can I go home yet? I'd really like to sleep in my own bed, and I feel much better now."
The doctor looked over her charts and thought for a moment, "I don't see why not. Take it easy for a couple of days, and make sure you're eating and drinking unless you want to visit us again!"
"Will do. I can go back to work tomorrow, though? I don't have a very strenuous job."
"That should be fine, but if you start feeling sick again, go home and relax. This pregnancy is going to be a little different than your first due to the fact that you're carrying twins. You're going to be a little more tired and be a little more incapacitated, but you'll be fine, especially with Jack as your husband. I'm sure he'll do whatever it is you need," He paused for a moment, "Well, I have some other patients to get to. I'll have a nurse bring you the discharge papers. See you in a few weeks!"
Angela fell back onto her bed and sighed.
Jack kissed her on the cheek and whispered, "We can handle anything, baby. Don't forget that. Because you and I, we're unstoppable."