What is an NT Scan?
The Nuchal Translucency Scan is an ultrasound done in the first trimester to measure the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck.
📅 When is it done?
Between 11 weeks to 13 weeks + 6 days of pregnancy
🎯 Why is it important?
It helps assess the risk of chromosomal conditions like:
Down Syndrome
Trisomy 18
Trisomy 13
👉 It’s a screening test, not a diagnostic one.
🧪 Recommended Tests Along with NT Scan
Doctors usually combine the NT scan with blood tests for better accuracy:
1. Double Marker Test
Blood test measuring:
Free beta-hCG
PAPP-A (Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A)
Combined with NT scan → called First Trimester Screening
📋 Other Common First Trimester Tests
🧬 Basic blood tests:
Blood group & Rh typing
Hemoglobin (to check anemia)
Thyroid profile (TSH)
Blood sugar (fasting/random)
🦠 Infection screening:
HIV
Hepatitis B (HBsAg)
Syphilis (VDRL test)
🧫 Urine test:
Routine & infection check
🧪 Optional / Advanced Tests
Depending on age, history, or doctor’s advice:
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
More accurate screening using fetal DNA from mother’s blood
Chorionic Villus Sampling
Diagnostic (invasive), done if high risk
👍 Key Takeaways
NT scan is safe, non-invasive, and routine
Best done on time (11–13+6 weeks)
Works best when combined with blood tests
Helps detect risks early so you can plan further care
