Marriage and reproduction in a woman with Down syndrome

Publication date: September–December 2013 Source:International Medical Review on Down Syndrome, Volume 17, Issue 3 Author(s): L.M. Azevedo Moreira , L. Damasceno Espirito Santo Sex life of people with Down syndrome (DS) or other conditions associated with intellectual disability is still a taboo, with few reports in the literature. Advances in knowledge of causal and nosological aspects, including its social achievements, have led to the strengthening of the inclusive movement aimed at those people. This paper presents an unusual case of successful marriage and reproduction of a woman with DS. The proband studied in special schools and communicates well verbally. She presented menarche at age of 13, showing autonomy in caring for her body. Eight years ago she met her current husband at the special school she attended. Two years after the wedding, the proband became pregnant of a male child without the syndrome. She is able to take care of her child needs, sharing this responsibility with her own mother, who was primarily responsible for her education directed towards autonomy. The proband's karyotype revealed trisomy 21 with chromosomal mosaicism. New social achievements are occurring, among them the establishment of lasting emotional relationships. The reproductive chances and risks of recurrence of DS should be considered in genetic counseling. The breeding and rearing of any children born from these marriages become new responsibilities shared by these special pare...
Source: International Medical Review on Down Syndrome - Category: Disability Source Type: research