3rd Ultrasound: We've got a handful!

Yesterday, I went into the Center for Medical Genetics to take my first trimester genetic screening, the Nuchal Translucency (NT) test, at 13 weeks.   The NT tests for Down Syndrome, and some other chromosomal abnormalities as well as major congenital heart problems.  According to www.babycenter.com, "It uses an ultrasound to measure the clear (translucent) space in the tissue at the back of their neck during the first trimester, causing this clear space to be larger than average."

It must be offered to every pregnant woman (so its covered by insurance) but it is optional.  My husband and I opted to do it to, a) learn if we were carriers for any major genetic diseases that may affect future children and, b) be prepared in case this baby is affected. 

We find out the results in 7-10 business days.

What I didn't expect with this visit was the very thorough ultrasound.  Previously, the ultrasounds were quick, mostly just to get a heartbeat calculation.  In addition to measuring for Down Syndrome, the technician went through each visible body part and limb, and I am happy to report that it looks like at this stage the baby has two legs and two arms, a head, a rib cage and a belly (phew).  This ultrasound lasted atleast 45 minutes, so I got a very good look at my baby from all sides.

Although these ultrasound appointments are lengthier, the technician told me mine was a bit of an exception.  Mine took especially long because the baby was "uncooperative."  By uncooperative, I mean it was doing flips, waving arms, twisting, sucking its thumb (how adorable!) etc.  Frankly, I thought it was precious.  At one point the technician was about to label some parts when the baby flipped on its stomach mid-analysis.  The technician exclaimed, "I think this is a girl, he/she is being difficult and playing tricks on us."  I was just happy to see such an active baby.  Clearly, its a child of ours!

Oh, because they are analyzing chromosomes, an unexpected result of the test is being able to determine the gender.  In fact, it is 99.9% accurate!  The technician asked if I wanted the gender result along with the others, and I said YES.  So in about two weeks, I'll also know if its a boy or a girl.

Baby Mac with his/her head on the right

Baby Mac with her/her head now on the left!  Also sucking his/her thumb :)