Should you have tests even if you're not sure if you'd terminate?

[Willow]

Hi all

Just looking for some opinions here. I'm 10 or 11 weeks and went to my GP late last week who has referred me to the midwife for booking in (appointment this Thurs).

We had a long discussion about my age and possible complications etc and I mentioned that my partner and I would like all tests available (not sure if I will opt for the amnio - depends on the nucal and triple results). My GP said that I should only have these if we plan to terminate if the baby has Downs.

I said that I'm not 100% sure, but if the baby did have Downs, we would probably proceed with the pregnancy as we have two friends with gorgeous Downs children who both have a great quality of life. My GP thinks that in this case we shouldn't have any tests.

My feeling is that even if the baby did have Downs and we didn't terminate, I would like to know before hand so we can prepare ourselves mentally and also prepare family and friends. I know when my best friends little boy was born with Downs it was a huge shock for them and it took many months to come to terms with it and explain to people.

I know I would feel happier if I had the tests, but I just wondered what other people's thoughts are before I meet my midwife on Thursday. I'm wondering if I should keep my thoughts to myself in case she decides I shouldn't have any tests.