Obstetric with Nuchal Translucency
What is Nuchal Translucency?
The ultrasound with Nuchal Translucency (NT) is a test performed in the first trimester of pregnancy to assess potential risks of the baby having genetic abnormalities (syndromes). He does not detail the baby's development as in Morphological analysis of the 1st quarter.
Why is he so important?
Help to calculate the risk of conditions such as Down syndrome, through the measurement of the nape (TN), heart rate, and maternal age.
Allows adjusting the gestational age if there are still doubts.
Check the baby's initial development, such as arms and legs.
When should it be done?
The ultrasound with TN should be performed between 12 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy, or when the baby is between 4.5 and 8.5 cm from head to buttocks (called CCN - Head-Buttocks Length).
And if the TN is altered?
If there are indications that lead the doctor to suspect that the baby is at increased risk of having some syndromeit may be recommended to proceed with tests that confirm or rule out the suspicion, such as amniocentesis, karyotype, or NIPT, if the parents wish. It is very important to remember that other fetal conditions can lead to an increased nuchal translucency: anemia, infections, metabolic problems, heart diseases, or simply a period of fetal adaptation, which soon returns to normal.
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ
Do you need preparation to take the exam?
No fasting or full bladder is necessary.
Is it safe for the baby?
Yes! Ultrasound does not use X-rays.
Do I need a doctor's prescription to take the exam?
Yes, the nuchal translucency ultrasound is usually requested by the obstetrician.
How long does the ultrasound with TN last?
There is no fixed time, as the doctor depends entirely on the baby's position and the need for additional assessments. It may take 10 minutes or 1 hour... Take your time and don't schedule appointments right afterward.
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