Every mother knows in her heart that she is not guaranteed a “perfect specimen.” Believe me: We torture ourselves throughout our pregnancies, imagining every possible horrific outcome. Even without the “benefit” of these invasive and risky tests, we are prepared. A healthy baby is a relief, a gift, a blessing from God. Refusing tests is nothing new. My doctor insisted on testing for Downs 25 years ago, with my first baby. I refused - because the result would not cause me to make the so-called choice I obviously was being offered. I also refused because amnio could damage a healthy unborn BABY. The doctor warned of other looming tragedies. A cyst that would require surgery immeidately upon delivery - without anasthetic, because “babies don’t feel pain.” I refused that one, too. The alleged cyst was not life threatening. Of course, the cyst was a phantom - probably a speck on the sonogram screen. And oh, yes, the boy I was told to expect is named Erin Marie, and she is now a mother herself. She didn’t have amnio, either. My grandson is the picture of health.
Your post is a great example of being a self advocate when it comes to health care.