Nuchal Translucency Screening

Dear Sandra,

I don't know but it must be very important. I do know that gestational diabetes is serious, so maybe you'd better follow the rules religiously . It is not only bad for you, but it means that the baby might have it when she, if it is a she, gets pregnant.

C. N.

Hi Sandra,

I had the NT screening with my daughter because I was going to be 35 by the time I delivered. It is a less definitive but non-evasive way to test for Down Syndrome. I didn't want to have an amnio but wanted to have the opportunity to prepare for a Downs child if we were going to have one. My doctor and I made the decision together to go through this screening. Mine was coupled with genetic counseling which my husband and I found fascinating.

I googled it, and this is one of the sites that came up.
Hope it helps.

http://www.babycenter.com/0_nuchal-translucency-screening...

I just googled it - and I think this is a standard test these days - I went for it too - second pregnancy.

What is the nuchal translucency screening test?
This prenatal test (also called the NT or nuchal fold scan) can help your healthcare practitioner assess your baby's risk of having Down syndrome (DS) and some other chromosomal abnormalities as well as major congenital heart problems.

The NT test uses ultrasound to measure the clear (translucent) space in the tissue at the back of your developing baby's neck. Babies with abnormalities tend to accumulate more fluid at the back of their neck during the first trimester, causing this clear space to be larger than average.

The NT scan must be done when you're between 11 and 14 weeks pregnant. (The last day you can have it done is the day you turn 13 weeks and 6 days pregnant.) It's usually offered along with a blood test in what's known as first-trimester combined screening.

Like other screening tests, an NT scan won't give you a diagnosis. But it can assess your baby's risk for certain problems and help you decide whether you want to have chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis to find out whether your baby is actually affected.

The NT scan has been performed in the United States since 1995, mostly at large medical centers. Ultrasound technicians (sonographers) and doctors need special training and high-resolution ultrasound equipment to perform it correctly. They must be certified by the Fetal Medicine Foundation in London, the organization that sets the international standards and provides the software that enables a doctor to evaluate your baby's risk.

Because the NT scan requires special training and equipment, it's not yet available everywhere. But the test is being done more widely as more medical personnel get trained and certified. If you're interested, ask your healthcare practitioner or genetic counselor whether it's offered in your area.

They use ultrasound to measure the thickness of the back of the baby's neck and the presence of the 'nose bone' to give you your risk of Down's Syndrome and two other Chromosomal Abnormalities. I had it done at 12 weeks and my risk went from that of a 40 year old (my age) to that of a 26 year old. They advised me that Amnio would pose a greater risk of harming our baby than the risk of an abnormality based on the results and the results of the blood test that goes with the test. Based on that, we did not do Amnio (something we didn't want to do anyways) and we have a very cute and healthy 3 month old son! BUT - it is a risk assessment test, not a definitive test like Amnio. If I get pregnant again, I will do that test and not Amnio. Good luck! S.

Sandra, I really don't know about the test, but wanted to share my experience with gestational diabetes. I had it with both of my pregnancies. The first one, I didn't know how to get it under control, but during the second one I met with a nutritionist and she told me to never put a carbohydrate in my mouth without a protein. She explained that the protein keeps the food in your stomach longer and thus doesn't drop a huge glucose load quickly. It worked immediately and I didn't have the diabetes any longer. To this day, if I have an apple, I have it with almond butter, nuts, or cheese. It also helps because you are not tempted to just have that cookie or bread. It also seemed to help with the morning sickness. Good luck and good health to you and the baby.

I'm 55 and my babies are adult women looking forward to being mama's themselves.

I had the screening done when I was pregnant at age 39. They told me my baby was at risk for down syndrome. Needless to say I worried endlessly. However, with further testing later in pregnancy, my restults were normal. I delivered a perfectly healthy baby. She's now 3 1/2, and smart as a whip. Please know the test has a high rate of inacuracy, amnio is best for genetic testing, but it comes with it's risks. Most important: 35 is still relatively young and most likely you have a healthy baby!

This is a noninvasive screening test that you can have done to detect your risk of having a child with Down's Syndrome and Trisomony 18. It is an ultrasound test that measures the fluid in the back of the neck of the fetus done at 13 wks and also requires a blood test at 13 & 16 weeks. I am 35 and pregnant with my fourth and decided to have this done. Once you are 35, they watch you much closely. My screening came back fine. I wanted peace of mind and wanted to be prepared if anything was 'not normal'. This also takes care of not having to do the AFP screening. I liked having an early ultrasound and you may also be able to tell the sex of the baby too. Kinda fun.
Good luck.

I just had the nt test done in December. It's an ultrasound where they measure the fold at the back of the neck of the baby. After the test, they'll draw some blood or prick your finger to compare your hormone levels with the measure of the fold. Depending on those findings, you'll be put in the lo/med/hi group of potential Down's Syndrome. This will help you determine whether to have an amnio, if you choose.
I was low and my ob/gyn recommended against the test.
Once again, the nt test is only an ultrasound and a blood test.

After that test, you should be offered the AFP (alphafetoprotein) test. Also, just a blood test to check for neural problems.

Good luck

Hi Sandra,
I am very familiar with this. When I went in to my first ultrasound my obgyn said that the nuchal fold area (around the baby's neck) was abnormal. From there I was sent to Pregnancy Specialists who for months were telling me that the nuchal area was abnormal which could mean a number of different genetic disorders could be headed our way. I can't tell you how much stress and misery that put on us for what should be a happy time. I finally asked for a second opinion around the time they were having gentic disorder counsilors meeting with us so we went to UCSD who had a lady that specialized in nuchal transluncency screenings. Within minutes she told me there was absolutely nothing wrong with that area and that all these months we had been worried was for nothing. Sure enough I delivered a perfectly healthy baby girl with no issues. So out of all of that drama I would say be sure and if for some reason they run that test and seem to say there may be an issue go to an expert that knows specifically what they are looking at to avoid a lot of undue stress and worry. I hope all goes well and it isn't even an issue but I just wanted to warn you that not everyone knows what to look for in this arena

It is also called the nuchal fold test and it measures along the nuchal folds behind the head for down syndrome. It is a non-invasive test, level two ultrasound. My guess is you are over 35 years of age. Is this a test you want? Because it should be done with your choice, not as a routine test. To be totally honest with you, this test should have been explained to you thoroughly before your doctor just laid it on you. It is one of the complaints I have about standard medical procedures...medical care is supposed to be done by informed consent. It doesn't sound like you received that in regards to this test since you didn't know what it was.
As a midwife, we explain all tests to our clients and let them decide if they want the test. It is far more empowering.

Hi, Sandra!

I live in the Valley and a couple of people I know went to Valley Perinatal Medical group and had a very detailed ultrasound and education on the matter while having the exam. It was a great experience and most of the time you have a positive outcome when they figure in the alpha fetal protein blood test. I know that it doesn't detect 95 or so % of defects, so if there is a history, or a positive outcome, you can always do an amnio if you want a more definite result in leiu of an abortion.

Hey girl-
First let me say that if you ever have a question about the care you are receiving, please ask your OB/GYN for clarification. It's your body, and you deserve to know all the details so that you can make an informed decision with regard to your care. You don't have to have this nuchal translucency screening, but since women who are 35 and older are now considered "advanced maternal age" there is a higher risk for delivering a baby with Down's Syndrome. The nuchal fold (basically, the thickness of the neck) and its measurements can provide clues with regard to whether a fetus has this syndrome. It is inconclusive, and will ultimately lead to an amniocentesis, which you might be nudged to have done, anyway, because of your age (gasp)! If you do elect to have the nuchal screening, know that it is non-invasive, so that's good. But this is one of those tests you can do without, unless the possible subsequent amniocentesis would render a result that would change your decision to bring this baby into the world. But that is your supremely personal decision.

I found this online for you... hope it helps!

K.

Nuchal translucency screening
Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board
Last updated: April 2007

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Highlights
What is the nuchal translucency screening test?
What are the advantages of first-trimester screening?
How can I decide which tests are right for me?
How is the NT scan done?
How are the results computed?
What do the results mean?
How accurate is this test?
What if the results indicate that my baby is at high risk for a problem?

What is the nuchal translucency screening test?
This prenatal test (also called the NT or nuchal fold scan) can help your healthcare practitioner assess your baby's risk of having Down syndrome (DS) and some other chromosomal abnormalities as well as major congenital heart problems.

The NT test uses ultrasound to measure the clear (translucent) space in the tissue at the back of your developing baby's neck. Babies with abnormalities tend to accumulate more fluid at the back of their neck during the first trimester, causing this clear space to be larger than average.

The NT scan must be done when you're between 11 and 14 weeks pregnant. (The last day you can have it done is the day you turn 13 weeks and 6 days pregnant.) It's usually offered along with a blood test in what's known as first-trimester combined screening.

Like other screening tests, an NT scan won't give you a diagnosis. But it can assess your baby's risk for certain problems and help you decide whether you want to have chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis to find out whether your baby is actually affected.

The NT scan has been performed in the United States since 1995, mostly at large medical centers. Ultrasound technicians (sonographers) and doctors need special training and high-resolution ultrasound equipment to perform it correctly. They must be certified by the Fetal Medicine Foundation in London, the organization that sets the international standards and provides the software that enables a doctor to evaluate your baby's risk.

Because the NT scan requires special training and equipment, it's not yet available everywhere. But the test is being done more widely as more medical personnel get trained and certified. If you're interested, ask your healthcare practitioner or genetic counselor whether it's offere

I work in a pregnancy clinic and have seen moms nearly abort their child because of the results of the test (not performed in our clinic). All were wrong!!!
Doctors are not any smarter than you are! They only know what they have been taught.

I looked this up on the net but I know nothing about it. I do know that a friend of mine at work had this test done and everything is okay. She had it done because she has a Kidney problem but I don't know what that has to do with it. I would specifically ask why the doctor is ordering the test. I would not worry with the first test but wait for the next to come. Even at that it is not a sure thing. Worry will only put you and your baby as more risk. I know this is easier said than done but please try. Good Luck.

What is the nuchal translucency screening test? This prenatal test (also called the NT or nuchal fold scan) can help your healthcare practitioner assess your baby's risk of having Down syndrome (DS) and some other chromosomal abnormalities as well as major congenital heart problems.

The NT test uses ultrasound to measure the clear (translucent) space in the tissue at the back of your developing baby's neck. Babies with abnormalities tend to accumulate more fluid at the back of their neck during the first trimester, causing this clear space to be larger than average.

The NT scan must be done when you're between 11 and 14 weeks pregnant. (The last day you can have it done is the day you turn 13 weeks and 6 days pregnant.) It's usually offered along with a blood test in what's known as first-trimester combined screening.

Like other screening tests, an NT scan won't give you a diagnosis. But it can assess your baby's risk for certain problems and help you decide whether you want to have chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis to find out whether your baby is actually affected.

The NT scan has been performed in the United States since 1995, mostly at large medical centers. Ultrasound technicians (sonographers) and doctors need special training and high-resolution ultrasound equipment to perform it correctly. They must be certified by the Fetal Medicine Foundation in London, the organization that sets the international standards and provides the software that enables a doctor to evaluate your baby's risk.

Because the NT scan requires special training and equipment, it's not yet available everywhere. But the test is being done more widely as more medical personnel get trained and certified. If you're interested, ask your healthcare practitioner or genetic counselor whether it's offered in your area.

Hi!! The Nuchal Translucency Screening is a "newer" test (since about mid 90's) used to detect/assess risk for Downs Syndrome. Not everywhere offers this test because it requires high resolution ultrasound machines and special training. There is a bunch of information at this site http://www.babycenter.com/0_nuchal-translucency-screening...
It is not always accurate...all test have an error rate. What I always did was talk to my Dr. or Midwife about what the risks were and what we would do next if anything. Good luck....babies are such a wonderful blessing!!!!

Get yourself over to the local acupuncture office for a bracelet to press on your wrist to relieve the nausea. Works. E. H

I have an 8 mth old and I am also a neonatal transport nurse who attends high risk deliveries. I had the test done myself. It's non invasive and they are saying VERY accurate if done at the correct gestation. For it to be accurate, you have to be SURE about your date of conception. All it is is an ultrasound. The baby has to cooperate and be in good position to measure the fluid pocket of amniotic fluid formed behind the neck. Down's Syndrome and other syndrome babies have a higher number when checking the nucal translucency. I say go for it! I did it with my 8 mths old and she's perfect. Because of the results of our test we opted not to do the more invasive amniocentesis. Good luck!
M.

I had a screening test with my daughter Samantha. I was 41 when I had her. The Nuchal translucency test was one part of a three part screening called the AFP. Anyway, the Nuchal test is where they look at the baby via the U/S and check roll on the back of their neck. At least, that's how it was explained to us. I guess this can help determine if the baby has some form of chromosomal abnormalities, like Downs. I'm sure everything will be fine.

BTW - Wow! You have your hands full. Good luck!!!

Hi Sandra-
I actually signed up for the n.t. testing. Unfortunately they missed the time frame and I ended up not having it done.
Apparently there are few registered sonogram people in the desert that are able to test.
Basiscally they're looking at the vertebre connecting to the head. I guess if it's thicker than normal, this could mean down syndrome (from what I understand). This test isn't 100% accurate either (it's in the 90+%accuracy rate).
I guess it's up to you if you want to spend the money.

I'm 36 and did the triple screening (blood) and a thorough sonogram with the "at risk" specialist due to my age. I opted out of doing the amnio as well because the blood tests were absolutely fine (and healthy family histories).

Wishing you a happy pregnancy!

.

Hi Sandra,

The info you've received from others is good. I'd just like to add that accuracy of the NT result depends heavily on accuracy of the fetal age. The test must be performed b/n 10 weeks, 3 days and 13 weeks -- def. no later than 14 weeks. Accuracy of NT testing also depends on the skill of the ultrasound technician, how clear the ultrasound image is, how good the magnification is, the quality and correct placement of the measuring calipers, and the mom's body fat. It is also very important that the a perfect side view (called "sagittal plane") of the fetus is presented in the sonograph.

As with any medical test, there is always a small chance of a false positive result occurring, in which case other screening tests will be recommended, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villi sampling (CVS). (And I really do mean a small chance. Diagnostic tests must meet very rigorous FDA standards before they can be marketed and have gone through extensive trials. Yes errors happen, but you can't rely on anecdotal evidence to quantify false positives/negative. These are determined by complex statistical calculations and can't be based on what you know from one source.)

Most responsible OBs will not recommend abortion on the basis of NT alone. In Europe, the NT testing results are always considered with the AFP (alphafetoprotein) results and there are some very good software programs that use this information to predict the risk of trisomy 21 (Downs Syndrome). The FDA won't allow that kind of testing in the US because of political pressures, although it is frequently conducted "off lable."

If I remember correctly it is a detailed ultra sound. It is because you are 35. It is considered advanced maternal age. I am 35 as well and they do suggest alot of testing when you reach that age. I made the personal choice to decline some like CVS and amnio. I did not want any invasive tests that risked the baby. Anyways back to what it is, it is checking for a spot in the babies neck I believe that can indicate a risk for down syndrome. It is not a big deal, just like an US, but I would look it up on line just to be sure, I had it done a while ago. Good luck to you! : )

hi sandra
i was so eager to post this response when i read your story. i did the nuchal test with both of my children (3 year old boy and 6 mo. old girl) it is a safe and thorough way to detect many defects. there is no risk of miscarriage like with amnio or cvs. i was advised to do it after i had a pregnancy that was diagnosed with down syndrome at my 5 mo. structural ultrasound. it is really reassuring to get answers so early. whether or not someone decides to terminate an unhealthy pregnancy or carry to term, it is great to educate yourself with what is to come. good luck!
T.

Your OB/GYN should be able to explain exactly what it tests for but it is routine for women 35 and older and now being offered to younger women. It is not invasive. I had it done almost a year ago when I was expecting.

it is a high def ultrasound used to test for health and development of the baby. The nucal fold is at the baby's neck. they will measure it now and then at 16 weeks, along with bone length, organ development,etc, it is bc you are over 35 and prob considered high risk until they rule out the gestational diabetes. if you want to to know the sex, they can usually see it with the high def this early, but won't give you a 100% confirmation. i have had it with 2 pregnancies. completely non-invasive. good luck!

Hi,
I had one of those also. Its like an advanced ultrasound. It gave really good pictures of the baby at 12 weeks. We could even tell it was a boy! They measure the head and neck to make sure that they are normal. They are looking for abnormalities. (I think it can screen for downs and some other genetic diseases.) I did it instead of an amnio. It is less invasive.
Good luck!

Dear Sandra,

This is very interesting. I had never heard of this test, and honestly wondered if you had misheard and were going in for a "glucose tolerance test," because of the diabetes reference. So I googled it and found out what these other mothers are telling you. I love that they are all telling you how reassuring it was to get this screening done. I just wanted to share some more on this . . . When I was offered the alphafetoprotein test, I declined it, because there was nothing that was going to "change my mind" about any of my pregnancies. If I could go back in time, I probably would have done it, because while I was determined to have all my babies, there are conditions which they could have been prepared to deal with in the delivery room, or that my husband and I could have prepared for before I even delivered the baby.

Best wishes, Sandra. Try not to worry too much . . .
B.

And one more comment - if your mind is like mine, it works better in hindsight. I always think of things after I leave that I should have asked, or can't remember. If this happens, never hesitate to call the doctor's office later, or to start a list of questions to ask at your next visit. But please don't feel bad about coming here to set your mind at ease during the weekend. How nice to have these other moms tell you of their experiences and maybe they can give you an insight as moms that the doctor cannot

Hi Sandra and congratulations on your pregnancy! A nuchal translucency is a kind of ultrasound where they measure the tissue on the back of the baby's neck. I know this sounds strange right? This test gives a very good/accurate indicate of your baby's risk of Down's syndrome and a few other chromosomal abnormalities. I had this test when I was pregnant- it was easy and painless. :) Here is a link to Babycenter.com where you could read a bit more: http://www.babycenter.com/0_nuchal-translucency-screening.... Wishing you all the best! - A.

HI Sandra,

A Nuchal Translucency screen is done with an ultrasound by a specially trained technician. It measures the "nuchal" fold which is a fold of skin at the back of the neck. Based upon the thickness of the fold, they can give an estimation or ratio of odds as to whether or not there is a chance that the fetus may have Down Syndrome. It isn't conclusive like an amnio or CVS, but it can give you an idea if there is a chance of it and help you decide if you want to do further testing--ie: Amnio.

The test itself is totally painless and not much different than a regular ultrasound.

Hope this helps,
J.

Hi Sandra,
Congratulations!!! I found out on Christmas Day that we are also expecting our second child. So....we are in the same place. That stinks about the sick feeling. I have only just felt blah and really really tired. Have you tried peppermint tea??? It did help me one night when my stomach was queasy.
Anyway, I was also gestational diabetic with my first and I took the early test and am OK for the time being. As far as the nuchal translucency screening, this is an early test that screens for trisomy 21 (Down's Syndrome) and trisomy 18. As the nurse practitioner explained it to me, it is only a screening and not a diagnostic test. So it would come back either positive or negative, not nothing more than that. If it comes back positive then they would do further diagnostic tests. I haven't had it done and my doctor does not require it. He lets you choose which test you want to have done. I am 41 right now and I think the only extra test that I will do (if all of the ultrasounds look good) is a fetal echocardiogram. Since I was gestational diabetic last time, and I have a higher chance of getting it again, as you know, and what I didn't know before is that you have a 3-5 times higher chance of having a baby with a heart defect if you have GD. My son was born with a ventricular septal defect so I will be having an echo to make sure the baby's heart is developing OK.
Hope that helps....keep me posted!

:)

V.