Why is nuchal translucency high

Studies have shown that a thicker NT measurement is caused by fluid increases, and those increases are because certain conditions are present in the fetus. Therefore, the increased measurement of the NT can show the baby has chromosome abnormalities like Trisomy 13, 18 and 21 or structural issues like abnormalities of the heart.

However, this does not mean the baby will have a problem. It only means the risk is higher. This condition means a baby has an extra chromosome 21 in every cell of their body. This affects 1 in babies born in the US. Certain issues like intellectual delays and physical issues are connected to the additional chromosome, leading to heart defects of intestinal issues. This condition leads to severe birth defects, typically causing the baby to die during development or shortly after birth.

The baby will have an extra chromosome 18 in each cell of their body. For this condition, each cell contains an extra chromosome This condition results in severe birth defects, typically many at once. These babies also do not have high life expectancy, with death possible during the pregnancy or shortly after birth.

The nuchal translucency normal range chart helps prepare the parents for these possibilities if the NT is out of normal range. First of all, the timing of this particular scan is very important. A woman must be 11 weeks, 2 days pregnant to 14 weeks, one day pregnant to have this scan for the best results. During this time, the baby's length from crown to rump is between 45 mm and 84 mm.

Typically, a routine scan to check on development is done during this time frame anyway. It is during this time that the baby's heartbeat can typically be heard and measured for the first time as well. The scan is completed using the normal ultrasound equipment and using the wand over the stomach, as opposed to vaginally.

There is no pain, although pressure may be exerted to get the best picture using the handheld wand. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Registry Builder New. Nuchal Translucency Screening. Medically Reviewed by Jennifer Wu, M. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. Learn more about NT screening, an early, noninvasive option that can screen for chromosomal disorders.

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Please whitelist our site to get all the best deals and offers from our partners. Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy. Follow us on. A genetic counsellor told us our baby could miscarry and most likely has a strong chromosomal abnormality, such as trisomy I'm petrified.

We go for another ultrasound in a week to see if the fluid has reduced and to check for a heartbeat. I'm trying to be positive, but also prepare myself for the worst. I haven't been able to find any stories with a measurement as high as ours. Has anyone been through this? It also doesn't help that I started showing early and everyone knows I'm pregnant, including the students I teach. I'm just so scared for our little baby and would appreciate anyone's advice and stories.

Newest First. Hugsy, I had high readings too. But they dropped in a week which is a good sign. It's hydrops in more than the neck that are worrisome the most for miscarry.

We even had those so if you are worried for genetics have an amnio like I did it puts the mind at ease regardless of what they find and you can seek care for whatever decisions you make an the genetic counsellors can make sure your birth goes more smoothly.

GuelphMomma, We were told the fluid extends up towards the baby's brain which is what really worries me. But thank you so much for sharing. If there's still a heartbeat we go back for amnio at 16 weeks. Hugsy, Just wanted you to know that I'm keeping you in my thoughts I replied on the other thread.. Same thing happened with us when we did our IPS - the Nuchal was high and until I got the results of the amnio I was an emotional wreck.

Be strong and stay busy until you have your amnio.. The exact same thing happened with my daughter. Her measurement was 6. We has the CVS and it came back normal. High NT can also indicate heart defects so we had a fetal echo at 20weeks in wich it also came back normal. We had scan after scan but by 32 weeks all the fluid had drained and she was born perfect! All that worry for nothing! She is the smartest 3 year old i know! Sounds like you have a few hurdles to over come yet and i pray yours end up like mine!

Thanks everyone I was back to work today and I swear more people than ever asked how the pregnancy is going! I know I'm just more sensitive to it all though! I'm staying positive, but realistic. If anyone else has stories to share, please do.