13 Week Nucal Translucency Ultrasound

This Wednesday I went to the University of California San Francisco Satellite Prenatal Diagnostic Center for my Nuchal Translucency Ultrasound. This is a test performed in the first trimester to screen for risk of genetic abnormalities (like Down's Syndrome). The risk of these issues increase with maternal age and since I am fairly young (26) I didn't think I would even qualify for the screening; however at my first OBGYN appointment I was informed that there is a state-wide initiative to offer these exams to all pregnant women in California. I think they are using the data for research and since I am a great supporter of medical research and development I agreed to participate.

The week before I got a little nervous about how I would feel if the results showed a high risk. Kyle and I talked about it before I agreed to the screening about what we would do based on the results and I do believe that having knowledge to prepare is better than being surprised/unprepared but I was still obsessively worrying about it. There are no guarantees in life but I found peace in the knowledge that GOD will bless us with the perfect baby for our family and all I have to do is take care of myself and give this baby the best environment to grow in. 

At the clinic I got brought back pretty much immediately and the tech who was very professional and knowledgable started the ultrasound (abdominal, not trans-vaginal yay!). The images were breathtaking. I still can not believe how much my little one has grown and developed over the last three months. I was able to see the heart beating, the hemispheres of the brain, all the bones of the spinal column and I could even count the fingers and toes. They were pretty calm (probably because I did my Zumba workout right before I went to my appointment) and the tech was able to take her measurements right away. 

If you want to learn more about NT Ultrasound and what it measures check it out here   

Afterward I was able to teleconference with one of the UCSF genetic counselors who went over all of my results. All of my blood work and the ultrasound measurements were will within normal limits and I was so relieved! Again I understand that it's not 100% guaranteed and we won't know for sure until the little one comes but It was very comforting just to be able to see the baby again.

I've included a picture for you guys to check out.....

My Little Peanut at 13 weeks

Until next time guys!