Nuchal translucency is a fluid-filled space behind a fetus’s neck. A Nuchal Translucency Scan (NT scan) is performed to check the size of the nuchal translucency during 11 to 13 weeks of pregnancy. They are used to screen for Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities. Dr. Mamta Phogat who is the best doctor for NT Scan in Faridabad explains why a Nuchal Translucency Scan is important during pregnancy. Read on.
A developing fetus normally has fluid behind its neck. A larger amount of fluid is present in developing Down Syndrome fetuses. During the 11 to 13 weeks of pregnancy, some nonchromosomal conditions, such as congenital heart disease, abdominal wall defects, neural tube defects, and other conditions, can also be detected.
Your abdominal ultrasound will reveal any abnormalities. Transvaginal tests are sometimes recommended. Your doctor will refer you to an NT scan regardless of your age. NT scans are usually done as follows:
- To confirm your due date.
- To determine how many fetuses are present.
- To determine whether the fetus is developing normally.
- To confirm the pregnancy date.
- According to the age of the expectant mother (mothers over 35 years of age should undergo this test).
- Previous chromosomal abnormalities.
- Family members with genetic diseases.
Why should you undergo a Nuchal Scan?
A nuchal translucency scan is recommended for pregnant women to determine if there is a chance of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down Syndrome. An NT scan is just one aspect of the detailed scan you undergo during your first trimester.
You are more likely to give birth to a child with Down syndrome if you are older. A screening test can determine whether or not a baby has Down syndrome. However, there is no certainty with an NT scan. After undergoing amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, it can be determined whether your baby has Down syndrome. Besides the NT scan results, age, blood test results, and other factors are also considered in the screening test. By determining the abnormality, you can proceed with a diagnostic test.
Benefits Of NT Scan
During the early stages of pregnancy, you can determine if your baby has Down Syndrome or any other chromosomal abnormality. That’s why NT scans are beneficial. Afterward, you get to discuss the results with your doctor. An NT scan typically costs between 800 and 1200 rupees. If screening indicates a risk, you might need to undergo additional tests such as chorion villus sampling or amniocentesis to confirm the results. As a result, you can decide whether to keep the baby or not.
Conclusion
NT scans are considered safe. Your baby will not suffer any harm from them. Make sure that you undergo the NT scan only during the first trimester. As early as the 15th week of pregnancy, the space behind the neck can disappear, which is why an NT scan should be conducted in the first trimester. Consult doctor for NT Scan in Faridaabd before undergoing an NT scan to learn about the procedure and possible results.