Fragile X Syndrome Awareness Month: All About Fragile X

May 28

It’s Fragile X Syndrome Awareness Month! Let’s talk about Fragile X.

Fragile X Syndrome is an important diagnosis that needs to be talked about. This month, we help to bring awareness to this condition and encourage you to take a few moments to learn more about this diagnosis.

As a family member of a diagnosed child, we know that navigating any unexpected diagnosis is challenging. Life Meant to Live is here to support you with resources and love.

What is Fragile X Syndrome?

Fragile X Syndrome (also known as FXS) is the most common cause of intellectual disability that is caused by a mutation in the X chromosomes. It affects a person’s development, especially their behavior and ability to learn. FXS is also the most common genetic cause of autism.

Although it varies from person to person, some of the more common symptoms of Fragile X include:

Developmental delay in crawling, walking, or talking
Hyperactive behavior such as fidgeting and impulsive actions
Difficulty communication and navigating social interactions

Fragile X syndrome is more common and more severe in males as it affects around 1 in 3600 males compared to around 1 in 6000 females. Because males have only one X, if they receive a damaged FMR1 gene, it’s the only one they have.

Navigating a Fragile X Diagnosis

FXS is diagnosed with a genetic test that can be done prior to or during pregnancy. It requires DNA from blood, amniotic fluid, or other tissues to determine if your child has the FMR1 gene.

Although there is no cure for FXS, receiving the diagnosis early means you can start using your resources now so that your child can receive the help that they need to live a healthy and happy life.

Navigating a Fragile X diagnosis can be overwhelming, but we’re here to support you along the way.

Free Ultrasounds at LMTL

At Life Meant to Live, we provide free ultrasounds for women navigating an unexpected or terminal diagnosis for their unborn baby.

If you’ve received an FXS diagnosis, we want to give you the chance to see your baby outside of a hospital setting and ensure that you have a positive experience to help outshine the negativity surrounding your pregnancy.

With empathy and compassion, we aim to empower families to see the beauty and potential beyond an FXS diagnosis. We strive to create a nurturing environment where hope, love, and understanding thrive, guiding individuals toward a future filled with strength, resilience, and lifelong memories.