How NT Scan is Done During Pregnancy?
Nuchal translucency is the first-trimester scan which is mostly recommended for every pregnant woman.
However, it becomes mandatory for a pregnant woman above 35 years of age.
The scan is usually done through your tummy. A full bladder is not required. The ultrasound specialist will apply some gel to your stomach and run a transducer over your skin.
Although you could feel some pressure as the doctor inserts the transducer into your skin to capture a clear image, it shouldn’t harm you.
How is the NT scan done?
Your baby’s height from the top of his head to the base of his spine will be measured by the doctor first.
She can precisely date your pregnancy with the help of this.
The width of the nuchal fluid at the back of your baby’s neck will then be measured. The fluid beneath the skin will appear black, and the skin itself will appear as a white line.
On the screen, you’ll typically be able to see your baby’s head, spine, limbs, hands, and feet. During this scan, your ultrasound specialist will be able to rule out certain significant anomalies, including issues with your baby’s abdominal wall, stomach, urinary bladder, and skull.
Is the NT scan abdominal or transvaginal?
Through your abdomen or vagina, early pregnancy ultrasounds like the nuchal translucency scan can be performed. Your sonographer will select a technique based on a number of factors, such as how far along you are in your pregnancy and the shape of your body.
You will be advised to drink a few cups of water in advance so that your bladder is full if your scan will be performed transabdominally, which is where it will be done along your abdomen. This facilitates viewing within your uterus (womb).
A tiny, lubricated ultrasound probe is softly placed into your vagina if your scan is conducted transvaginally. The probe is often not unpleasant, though it could be a little uncomfortable.
Is an NT Scan painful?
NT (Nuchal Translucency) scans are not painful.
However, if the NT scan is done vaginally, a probe that is lubricated with gel is inserted into the vagina, which might be uncomfortable but not so painful.
Following an internal scan, you should foresee:
- You will have to lie down for the scan and take off the bottom part of your clothes, which can be a little humiliating.
- Although the probe will be inserted gradually and with care, you can still experience some discomfort as it moves.
- Your cervix will come into contact with the probe, which some women may find painful.
- As the probe is moved during the scan to acquire photographs from various angles, you may feel some pressure.
- Due to individual differences, some women may feel more pain during an interior scan. Before the ultrasound, tell your sonographer if you are uncomfortable or in pain and if there are any problems with your cervix or vagina.
An NT scan is regarded as secure. Your baby is not harmed in any way by it. However, make sure you only have an NT scan during the first trimester.
The space behind the neck may vanish by the 15th week of pregnancy, which is why an NT scan should be performed in the first trimester. Before having an NT scan, go over the process, potential outcomes, and results with your doctor.
