What is the Nuchal Translucency? | Genetic Counselor Explains

In this episode, Kendra Schaa, a board-certified genetic counselor, explains the nuchal translucency ultrasound, why and how the nuchal translucency (NT) is measured, and what an increased NT measurement can mean. This episode describes how to prepare for next steps if you receive an increased NT measurement, including information about prenatal genetic testing, prenatal ultrasound and fetal echocardiogram. If you have received an increased/abnormal NT ultrasound, Kendra offers 1-on-1 virtual genetic counseling appointments. To schedule an appointment, visit https://app.profi.io/book/allaylife.

Check out our digital workbook created for those who receive abnormal genetic test results or ultrasound findings - https://allay-life.com/product/findin...

Disclaimer: This video is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine or other professional healthcare services. The use of this information and the materials linked to this video is at the user's own risk. The content in this video is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they have, and they should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. Knowledge about genetics is constantly evolving. This information may become out of date.

00:00 Intro
00:48 What is the nuchal translucency and why does it matter?
01:33 Prenatal genetic testing and ultrasound, regardless of NT measurement
01:50 How the NT is measured
02:12 Factors that may impact the accuracy of the NT measurement
02:25 When the NT should be measured according to different guidelines
03:03 Normal NT measurements
03:40 Abnormal/Increased NT measurements
04:35 Changes in NT during pregnancy
05:02 Can a baby be born healthy with an abnormal NT measurement?
05:30 Factors that may cause abnormal NT measurement
06:03 Coping with an abnormal NT measurement
06:20 Genetic conditions that can cause abnormal NT measurement
07:14 Structural changes that can cause abnormal NT measurement
07:35 Fetal echocardiogram + detailed anatomy ultrasound
07:54 Family history and NT measurement
08:15 Genetic testing options
09:09 Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) + Amniocentesis
09:50 NIPT testing after abnormal NT measurement
10:35 Preparing after negative genetic testing results but abnormal NT measurement
11:05 What happens to a baby born with an abnormal NT measurement?
11:25 Why diagnosing a genetic condition can be helpful
11:40 Closing

Thank you for watching. For more information check out the links below:

Guidelines for measuring the Nuchal Translucency
Nuchal Translucency Quality Review Program: https://ntqr.perinatalquality.org/wfF...
The Fetal Medicine Foundation:
https://fetalmedicine.org/fmf-certifi...

Calculator to determine percentile based on NT measurement and crown-rump length (CRL): https://www.perinatology.com/calculat...

For support resources and to learn more about Allay Life, visit www.allay-life.com.

With love and light, see you next time.

Reference:
In regard to whether a baby can be born healthy with an abnormal NT measurement, the following research was referenced: Haak, M. C., & van Vugt, J. M. (2003). Pathophysiology of increased nuchal translucency: a review of the literature. Human reproduction update, 9(2), 175–184. https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/dmg008

Music courtesy of Pixabay.

Keywords: nuchal translucency, NT, NT scan, nuchal translucency ultrasound, nuchal translucency scan, pregnancy, genetic testing, genetic counselor, chromosome condition, Down syndrome, amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, CVS, NIPT, diagnostic testing, prenatal testing, prenatal genetic, prenatal ultrasound

Produced by Gabby Estlund
Website: gabbyestlund.com
Contact: [email protected]