ANTENATAL 1ST TRIMESTER NTS
About ANC ANTENATAL 1ST TRIMESTER NTS
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NUCHAL TRANSLUENCY SCAN (NTS)
A nuchal translucency (NT) scan is an ultrasound that measures the amount of fluid behind a fetus's neck during the first trimester of pregnancy. It's a screening test that helps healthcare providers estimate the risk of a baby having a chromosomal or genetic abnormality, such as Down syndrome. The NT scan is usually performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, and can be done through the abdomen or vagina.
The NT scan is part of the first trimester screening, which also includes a maternal blood test. The blood test checks for levels of two substances: Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and Human chorionic gonadotropin.
The combined results of the blood tests and the ultrasound give a sense of the baby's risk of certain birth defects, such as: Down syndrome, Edward's syndrome (trisomy 18), Trisomy 13, and Heart problems.
The NT scan is safe and optional for all pregnant women. The cut-off for the nuchal translucency measurement is 3.5 mm, with less than 3.5 mm considered normal and 3.5 mm or more considered increased. The ultrasound also looks at the baby's body parts, like the heart and the brain. Some providers also look for the presence of the fetal nasal bone during the NT scan.
The results of an NT screen can also be combined with non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which is the most accurate of all prenatal screenings. However, some insurance policies won't cover an NT if the patient has already had NIPT.
What is a first-trimester screening test?
A first-trimester screening (or combined sequential screening) determines the chances of your baby having congenital conditions such as Down syndrome. In addition to the NT scan, a first-trimester screening uses blood tests to help determine if your baby is at risk for congenital conditions. Combining a blood test and the NT scan is more accurate than the NT scan alone.
Who should get a nuchal translucency screening?
Anyone can get a nuchal translucency screening as long as they’re between 11 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. The ultrasound is optional for all people who are pregnant. Talk to your healthcare provider to make sure you understand what each test is looking for.
What is normal nuchal translucency measurement?
The amount of fluid in your baby’s neck increases with gestational age. Different organizations have slightly different cut-offs at which they’ll recommend additional testing. These are based on the NT, as well as gestational age. For most pregnancies, NT above 3 millimetres prompts a discussion of genetic counselling and additional testing.
A nuchal translucency (NT) scan can help determine how likely it is that your baby has a congenital or genetic condition. If you have an irregular result, don’t panic. NT tests are screenings, and abnormal tests mean more tests are needed. There’s still a chance that you’ll have a healthy baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about what your test results mean and what they recommend next. It might also help to talk through your options with a genetic counsellor and discuss the risks and benefits of further testing.