Genetic testing

Tetralogy of Fallot and other congenital heart defects are sometimes associated with genetic disorders such as Down's Syndrome or DiGeorge Syndrome (also known as 22q deletion syndrome). Because I didn't feel an amniocentesis was necessary (there is a risk of miscarriage and knowing whether or not there was a genetic disorder wouldn't change my love for my baby), blood from Séamus' umbilical cord was collected after he was born. The cord blood was sent out for testing. I am happy, though not surprised, to report that the results came back normal!