Robertsonian Translocation - Chromosome problem

[200bhp]

The wife and I have been trying for a baby for a long time with no success. Our GP sent us to a specialist who has done a load of blood tests resulting in us now knowing the problem.

I have a Robertsonian Translocation between chromosomes 13 and 14.

Basically what this means is part of chromosome 14 has broken off and stuck itself to chromosome 13. This then makes it difficult to conceive because my wife's body rejects them during its "quality control" phase.

There are a few options available to us, including an IVF "Designer Baby" where they can adjust things accordingly. However the success rate of this procedure is less than 20% and it will cost us several thousand each attempt.

We can carry on trying naturally but the chances of conception this way are even lower than IVF.

I guess you will be reading this either because you know what I'm talking about or you saw the thread title and wanted to know what on earth it was! If the former, please share your experience of it and what you managed to do.

Currently I'm at a loss having spent 10 years with my wife blissfully unaware that I wouldnt easily be able to father a child. In my early 20s I couldnt care less for them but having spent a lot of time with my nieces and nephews recently coupled with finding financial security I really am ready to start a family

[BlackVanDyke]

That must be a hell of a shock to find out, I'm really sorry to hear it. Remember there are many many ways to become a parent, only one involves you biologically and of course that's the easiest but not the most valid or 'real'. I'm applying to adopt, my preparation class (you do a 4 day class to help you through the process) was full of couples who'd had rounds and rounds of IVF and been unable to conceive and me (single but also can't do pregnancy), another single person and 1 couple who had chosen not to even attempt IVF due to one of their medical condition... nobody can say what's right for you, but hang on to the fact that if you and your wife are in agreement you WILL be parents, its just a question of how.

Bit galling when a friend accidentally conceived when I've been going through this process since January, mind... I'm happy for her and no mistake but I don't half wish it was as easy for me.