I would like some opinions on my situation if you ladies wouldn't mind.

I am 28 years old and have been recently diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney disease. Basically cysts grow in my kidneys and may eventually lead to kidney failure. It is a dominant trait which means that my kids each have a 50% chance of having PKD as well.

Here is my problem: I want to have another baby and so does my husband. I am torn between the emotional side of wanting a third child and the logical side of me that says I already have 2 beautiful kids and have to worry about them inheriting this. I don't know if it is right to have another baby knowing there is a 50% chance of that baby having PKD too.

I know that nobody can make this decision for us but I would really like the perspective of others. Please Help.

Thanks

Joanie

Sorry you are going through this as I deal with kidney patients I see this situation all the time.

First do your children currently show any signs of anything?? Elevated creat. cysts on US?

I always tell my patients (transplant who want to become preg, PKD exc) don't do something you will regret...you will not regreat having another baby even if it ends up to have PKD right? That will just be something unique about this child you will have to take care of. You know with all the advanced meds/treatments out there who knows what this will hold to your kids(future kids).

I know that I have a patient she already has 3 girls but really wants a boy....she is on the transplant waiting list(not on dialysis yet) I told her to wait until she got the transplant before looking at becoming preg. Well she did it anyway and d/t her CKD she aborted (medically per MD) she would have probably died if she continued the preg.

So you are still what sounds to be healthy not on HD yet if you wait thinking about this too long something may happen where you won't be able to safely become/stay preg. they you will regret your decision of waiting.....

Well, I was just thinking, maybe you could consider adoption. There are soooo sooo many children in the world who need a loving family.

And since you already have two of your own... do you really want or need to have another of "your own"?

My uncle and aunt adopted 4 (I know!) children and I couldn't imagine a more beautiful or happy family. And I shudder to think of the life those poor kids would have had to live had they not been adopted.

Anyways, it is a very personal desision, but I just wanted to throw that idea out there as it seems like it would satisfy your emotional needs of a third child without the intellectual guilt of knowing that your child may be sick. As well, adopting will save you from having to worry about your own health through the pregnancy process.

that is a good thought. Yep it going to have to be you all's decision. I am assuming you have spoke with your nephrologist and they probably tell you also it's your choice. Just talk it over and pray.
Good luck!!!

Thanks Why and cottencandy

I appreciate your insights.

I have to agree with cottencandy. Adoption is always an open option. 50% chance is a very high risk and it would make it immensely hard for the child's growing years if he/she develops polycystic kidney disease. But in the end it's always your choice. Good luck and bless your family.