The coolest sight ever

We had an ultrasound this past Friday, 8/17. We opted to do the sequential screening for genetic disorders such as Downs and that means an ultrasound and blood test at 12-13 weeks, and then another blood test around 17 weeks or so. I barely made it there on time, rushing to get through Friday traffic, and Vince wouldn't have made it at all if the office hadn't been running behind - he left late and then got stuck behind a train, so he was almost 20 minutes late. But, luckily it all worked out and shortly after he made it we were called in.

This one was an external ultrasound done over the belly. The last time we saw the rugrat it was just a teeny speck with a yolk sac. I knew it would look a lot different, but I was still totally surprised to see what a complete little being it already was. I even said out loud, "Holy shit, it's a baby!" I can't even describe how blown away seeing that was for me. I know you won't believe it, but in fact I did not cry. I was too fascinated with what I was seeing to cry, I think.

The tech's primary goal was to measure the nuchal fold, which is the thickness of skin at the back of the neck. A thicker measurement can be an indicator of chromosomal defects. Luckily, it looked perfect. She then got a look at the face to make sure the nasal bones were forming correctly, which also can be a red flag if they aren't. Again, everything looked great.

The little one was MOVING! We got to see a big yawn, waving of hands and wriggling of fingers, thumb sucking, stretching, and even some flipping. I asked the tech (Pippa again) if it was too early to take a peek between the legs. She said we could see if there was anything worth seeing, but that it was likely still too early. The baby initially had its legs firmly crossed across its body, so it seemed we wouldn't even get a look, but then almost as if on cue, the bugger flipped right over and spread its legs to show us the goods. The result - likely the little one is going to be a little man. Obviously we won't be going out and decking things out in blue until the big ultrasound at 20 weeks confirms it, but we are thrilled (and not at all surprised since we both from day 1 have been positive this baby was a boy)!

Baby is about 7cm, so about the size of a lime, and looks perfect. Heart rate today was 154. It was hard to hear it since he was moving around so much Pippa had a hard time capturing it. No idea on my weight - they didn't take it this time. And I didn't get my blood drawn either because by the time we were done with the ultrasound, they had already sent out all the blood work for the day. So, I went back this morning (Monday). All I can say is as nice as that nurse was, she was the worst stick EVER! My arm has been sore all day. Grrr.

Another post, another promise of photos. I need to get the pics scanned and digitized so I can attempt to post them here. I know, I know, hold your breath waiting on it....