What is a nuchal fold translucency test?

The nuchal translucency test measures the nuchal fold thickness. This is an area of tissue at the back of an unborn baby’s neck. Measuring this thickness helps assess the risk for Down syndrome and other genetic problems in the baby.

What does NT screening test for?

The nuchal (say “NEW-kuhl”) translucency screening is a test done during pregnancy. It uses ultrasound to measure the thickness of the fluid buildup at the back of the developing baby’s neck. If this area is thicker than normal, it can be an early sign of Down syndrome, trisomy 18, or heart problems.

How do I prepare for an NT ultrasound?

A nuchal translucency exam does not require much preparation however, it is important to have a full bladder. One hour before the exam, drink 32 oz. of water and do not empty your bladder. You’ll be able to empty your bladder as soon as your ultrasound exam is finished.

What abnormalities can be detected at 12 week scan?

As well as being a good marker for babies with Down’s syndrome, an increased nuchal translucency measurement can also pick up other genetic conditions, such as Edwards’ syndrome (where the baby has an extra copy of chromosome 18) and Patau’s syndrome (an extra copy of chromosome 13), and some other structural problems.

Which week is best for NT scan?

These data suggest that when only the last menstrual period is known the optimum time to schedule a nuchal translucency measurement is at 12 to 13 weeks’ gestation.

Can you tell gender at 12 week scan?

The earliest time we can assess the baby’s sex is at 12 weeks gestation/pregnancy: We can tell the sex of the baby at the 12 week scan by assessing the direction of the nub. This is something that can be identified on babies at this stage and if it points vertically then it is likely to be a boy.

What’s a normal NT measurement at 12 weeks?

First trimester measurement of NT at 12 weeks of gestation was 3.2 mm during the routine first trimester screening. The normal range of NT for this age is 1.1-3 mm.