Highlights
- A nuchal translucency scan measures a fluid-filled space behind your baby’s neck.
- This measurement can help estimate the chances of your baby being born with a genetic condition such as Down syndrome.
- Having a nuchal translucency scan is optional.
- This scan is done towards the end of the first trimester of pregnancy.
In This Article
- Nuchal Translucency Scan Overview
- Reasons for Having a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- The Optional Nature of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Timing of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Sonographer’s Role in a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Nuchal Translucency Scan Procedure
- Preparation for a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Safety of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Results of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Costs of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Partner’s Presence During the Scan
- Alternatives to a Nuchal Translucency Scan
- Key Questions for Your Doctor
- Tools and Assistance
Nuchal Translucency Scan Overview
A nuchal translucency scan is an ultrasound scan that measures the thickness of the space behind your baby’s neck. This measurement can help estimate the chance your baby has certain conditions such as Down syndrome. It is part of the combined first-trimester screening test.
At the same time, the sonographer can also:
- Perform a dating scan
- Find out if you are pregnant with twins
- Measure other physical structures of your unborn baby
Reasons for Having a Nuchal Translucency Scan
There is a small chance that your baby can be born with a congenital anomaly (birth difference). Screening is offered to everyone during pregnancy.
The chances of conceiving a baby with a genetic disorder are greater the older you are. If you are aged over 35 years or there are genetic conditions in your family, your doctor may recommend this scan.
Most nuchal translucency scans do not find any problems. However, about 5 in every 100 women receive a ‘high-risk’ result from combined first-trimester screening.
The Optional Nature of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
Pregnancy ultrasound scans are optional. During pregnancy, you, your doctor, and midwife can decide together which antenatal tests you should have. You may decide not to have any screening tests.
You will be given information about each test so that you can make an informed decision.
Timing of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
A nuchal translucency scan can be done after 11 weeks and before 14 weeks of pregnancy.
Sonographer’s Role in a Nuchal Translucency Scan
A nuchal translucency scan is usually performed by a specially trained technician called a sonographer. The scan is performed in a radiology clinic, a specialist clinic, or a hospital.
Nuchal Translucency Scan Procedure
A nuchal translucency scan is done using a handheld ultrasound wand. The wand may be placed on your abdomen (tummy) or in your vagina. Your sonographer will decide based on factors such as:
- How far along your pregnancy is
- The position of your baby
- Your body shape
Tummy Ultrasound
If your scan is done through your abdomen, you should not urinate before the scan, as a full bladder makes it easier to see inside your uterus.
The sonographer will apply some gel and gently move the handheld ultrasound wand across your abdomen. It doesn’t usually hurt.
Vaginal Ultrasound
If your scan is done through your vagina, the sonographer will gently insert a small, lubricated ultrasound probe. The probe may be a little uncomfortable but isn’t usually painful.
Scans done this way can provide clearer pictures because the probe is closer to your uterus. If a vaginal probe is needed, the sonographer will explain the process first.
Preparation for a Nuchal Translucency Scan
It’s a good idea to think carefully about why you are having a nuchal translucency scan. Consider what you would do next if your screening tests show that there is a high chance of your baby having a problem. Talk this over with your partner, a friend, or a family member.
On the day, drink a few glasses of water so that there is fluid in your bladder when you arrive. Wear loose clothes so that the sonographer can easily reach your abdomen.
If you are having the combined first-trimester screening, you will also need a blood test.
Safety of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
Ultrasounds do not harm you or your baby or increase your risk of miscarriage. No needles or radiation are used.
Results of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
This scan usually takes about 30 minutes. Ask your doctor or sonographer when your results will be available.
The ultrasound clinic will send a full report to your doctor. The full results may take 7 to 10 days.
Costs of a Nuchal Translucency Scan
The cost of a nuchal translucency scan may vary depending on where you go for the test. Ask about the cost when you book your appointment.
Partner’s Presence During the Scan
Yes. You can bring your partner, family member, or friend to your ultrasound appointments.
It can be helpful for someone else to listen to the information provided so that you can discuss it afterward.
Alternatives to a Nuchal Translucency Scan
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), also known as cell-free DNA testing (cfDNA), is another antenatal screening test for chromosomal abnormalities.
It is more accurate than a nuchal translucency scan or combined first-trimester screening. However, NIPT can be expensive.
Talk with your doctor or midwife for advice about which antenatal screening method is right for you.
Key Questions for Your Doctor
Here are some questions you might want to ask your midwife or doctor:
- Do I need to do anything to care for myself after the procedure?
- Why are you offering me this test?
- What does the procedure involve, and do I need to do anything on the day?
- When will I get the results?
- Who will give me my results?
Tools and Assistance
- Your Doctor, Obstetrician, or Midwife: These healthcare professionals can provide detailed information about the nuchal translucency scan and help you decide if it’s the right test for your pregnancy. They can also guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
- Genetic Counselor: A genetic counselor can provide valuable insight into the results of your nuchal translucency scan, explaining what the results mean and discussing the possible next steps, such as additional tests or support services. They can also assist with understanding the risks associated with genetic conditions and help you make informed decisions.
- Ultrasound Clinics: These specialized facilities have trained sonographers who perform nuchal translucency scans. They ensure the scan is done properly and provide initial information about the procedure. They can also inform you about the cost and timing of receiving results.
- Prenatal Screening Tests: In addition to nuchal translucency scans, there are other screening tests available, such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), which can offer more detailed information on chromosomal abnormalities with higher accuracy. Your healthcare provider can explain the available options based on your individual needs and risk factors.
- Support Groups and Online Communities: Connecting with others who have gone through similar prenatal testing experiences can be helpful. There are various online forums and local support groups for expectant parents who want to share experiences and find advice or emotional support related to genetic testing and prenatal scans.
Need more information?
Nuchal Translucency Scan – InsideRadiologyInsideRadiology provides free and easily accessible, accurate, up to date and credible information about medical imaging tests and procedures.Read more on InsideRadiology websiteUltrasound scans during pregnancyUltrasound scans help monitor your baby’s health throughout your pregnancy. Find out when and why you might have ultrasound scans during pregnancy.Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby websiteCheckups, scans and tests during pregnancyHandy infographic that shows what you can expect and what you might be offered at each antenatal appointment during your pregnancy.Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby websiteUltrasounds during pregnancy | Health and wellbeing | Queensland GovernmentUltrasounds use sound waves to create an image (picture) of your baby. They are used to look at your developing baby.Read more on Queensland Health websiteDating scanIf you are pregnant you can have a dating scan. During a dating ultrasound, a sonographer measures your baby to work out your estimated due date.Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website18-20 Week Screening Pregnancy Ultrasound – Consumers – InsideRadiologyAn 18–20 week pregnancy screening ultrasound is part of the routine care during pregnancy. Screening is carried out at this stage in the pregnancy because the foetusRead more on InsideRadiology websitePregnancy at week 10Think about the prenatal screening tests you might have, and whether you want a dating scan to confirm your due date.Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby websiteVaginal ultrasoundFind out when a vaginal ultrasound may be recommended during your pregnancy, how the test is done and the benefits and risks of this type of test.Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby websiteMorphology scanYou will be offered a morphology scan at week 18 to 22 of pregnancy. Learn what a morphology scan can tell you and how this ultrasound test is done.Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby websiteNon-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)A non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) is a sensitive test to screen for Down syndrome and some other chromosomal disorders early in pregnancy.Read more on Pregnancy, Birth & Baby website
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