Nuchal Translucency Scan

This is a screening test, where measurements are made of the fetus between 12 weeks and 13 weeks and 6 days. The information obtained is combined with specific hormone levels in your blood test results to produce a risk factor for chromosomal abnormalities (e.g. Down Syndrome) and potential growth issues later in pregnancy. We will also assess early fetal development and growth. It is not a diagnostic test, but a guide for your referrer, you and your partner, about the need for further tests. Occasionally the fetus is not well seen on the abdominal scan and it may be necessary to perform an endovaginal scan.  

We recommend you have the MSS1 blood test prior to the ultrasound.

The Sonographer will perform the examination and record the necessary ultrasound images. The Radiologist will review these images and provide a written report to your Referrer and National Screening Unit.

Preparation: You will need to have a full bladder for this examination. Please drink one litre of water finished one hour before your appointment time; do not empty after this. The urine in your bladder assists us to see the pregnancy and pelvic organs.

The Procedure: The Sonographer will ask you to lie on a table. Some gel will be spread on your bare lower abdomen and a transducer will be moved over your lower abdomen to produce images. It may be a bit uncomfortable at times when the Sonographer has to obtain the best images for the most accurate measurements. You will be able to watch these images on a specially mounted TV screen. The Sonographer will be able to show you details of what they are seeing on the monitor.

Scan duration: On average an ultrasound scan takes approximately 30 minutes. Factors that determine the length of the scan are, the position of the baby in the uterus, how much fluid is present around the baby, how full the bladder is, the reason for the scan, maternal size or whether an endovaginal scan is required.

Post examination: The Radiologist will review the ultrasound images and provide a written report to your Midwife/Doctor and the pathology laboratory. The scan images will be available to you and your family through our PACSBridge app.

You will be asked to sign a consent form before any images will be sent electronically. If you do not wish to receive these, please let us know.