Learn About Nuchal Translucency (The NT Scan)

The nine grand months of pregnancy are special for every expectant mother as many things happen to yourself and your baby. Probably the first milestone will be the 12th week which officially marks the end of the first trimester. This is also the crucial phase of your pregnancy, as you’ll be due for the most critical NT scan, which will let your doctor have a closer look at the growth of your little one and tell how things are progressing.

The fluid-filled clear space behind the unborn baby’s neck is called Nuchal Translucency. The scan done to evaluate the size of nuchal translucency between the 12th and 14th week of pregnancy is the NT scan. This is performed to screen for any chromosomal abnormalities, neurological defects, congenital heart disease and other defects in the developing baby.

It’s just a simple abdominal ultrasound, and there’s nothing to feel anxious about the pain or discomfort. Sometimes a transvaginal test may be recommended if needed. Irrespective of the woman’s age, the scan is usually done –

• To confirm the due date

• To find out the number of babies

• To check whether the fetus is normally developing or not

• To find the history of chromosomal abnormality in a previous pregnancy

• To know if there could be a genetic abnormality

In addition, the doctors will be able to check if your baby’s anatomy is normal. The limbs, heart, brain, and kidney are all measured during this scan. It also helps to check the placental position, which may sometimes lead to pregnancy complications. If the scan indicates placenta previa or other similar placental conditions, the doctor may closely monitor your pregnancy and provide the right advice to be precautious.

Also, doctors even look for the presence of the baby’s nasal bone during the NT scan. If there’s no nasal bone, some experts believe that this symbolizes the likelihood of genetic/chromosomal disorders. Besides this, if the ultrasound specialist finds a risk associated with the growing baby, you would be asked to get further advanced tests such as chorion villus sampling or amniocentesis. Your doctor will advise you to continue or terminate the pregnancy based on the final results.

The NT scan is generally considered safe and does not cause any harm to the developing fetus. Make sure to undergo an NT scan only during the first trimester as the space behind the baby’s neck may disappear gradually by the 15th week of pregnancy. Prepare yourself to take the right decision based on your NT scan results and the doctor’s advice. Remember to stay positive, and never give up hope, no matter what!