Nuchal Translucency Scan
A nuchal translucency scan is a type of screening assessment that’s performed during early pregnancy to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in your baby.
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What is a nuchal translucency scan?
A nuchal translucency scan, also called a combined first-trimester screening, is a type of screening assessment. It’s most accurate when performed between 11 +3 and 13 +6 weeks of pregnancy, when the baby measures between 45 and 84 mm in length.
It involves 2 tests: an ultrasound to assess the amount of fluid in the area at the back of your baby’s neck (the nuchal fold), and a blood test. Combined, the results of these tests calculate the risk of your baby having certain chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down’s syndrome (Trisomy 18), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18) and Patau’s syndrome (Trisomy 13).
The blood test is also done to assess your biochemical markers, known as Papp-A (a protein produced by the developing placenta) and Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (the pregnancy hormone). These findings are combined to give an overall individualised risk, as part of the ‘combined screening.’
The ultrasound is also used to estimate the gestational age of your baby to ensure the screening is being done within the optimal timeframe. During the scan, your sonographer will also assess your baby’s heartbeat, and check for multiple pregnancies such as twins ot triplets. Abnormalities in fetal development and certain major structural abnormalities can also be diagnosed at this stage.
At Welbeck, these tests and scans take place within our state-of-the-art Women’s Health centre and are performed by our specialist sonographers.
What does a nuchal translucency scan involve?
A nuchal translucency scan is typically performed via a transabdominal ultrasound (over your tummy) at the same time as your first-trimester scan. You will also have blood taken.
For a transabdominal ultrasound, ultrasound gel will be applied to your tummy so that an ultrasound probe can be moved back and forth. Live images will appear on a screen for you and your sonographer to see.
Is a nuchal translucency scan safe?
Yes. There are no known risks to you or your baby from having an ultrasound scan, either with transabdominal or transvaginal imaging.
How to prepare for a nuchal translucency scan
There is no preparation required to have a nuchal translucency scan.
What happens after a nuchal translucency scan?
We will usually receive your results within 2 to 4 working days. We will then email a copy of the results or call you to discuss the report if any further recommendations are needed for any high-risk results.
What if the combined screening results return high risk?
The results of the screening can sometimes show a higher risk result. It’s important to remember that this is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. If your results indicate a risk of 1:300 or greater, we will guide you as to the next best steps, which can include further testing in the form of NIPT.
How much does a private nuchal translucency scan cost?
At Welbeck, a gender and early fetal wellbeing scan costs £200.
Why choose Welbeck?
It’s common to feel worried or anxious during pregnancy, at any stage. At Welbeck, we offer expectant parents peace of mind through advanced fetal monitoring and testing and are committed to supporting you at every stage of your pregnancy.
With access to colleagues across other specialties, we are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if needed to ensure you receive the best possible treatment as quickly as possible, all under one roof.
All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.
Booking a private nuchal translucency scan
If you’d like to book a private nuchal translucency scan, simply get in touch with our Women’s Health centre to make an appointment.
FAQs
Is there someone to discuss my results with?
Yes. In the case of any high-risk results, our specialist consultant or sonographer will contact you to explain and discuss the findings and advise you on the next steps to take and answer any questions you may have.
Will I receive images?
Yes. Along with your report, we will provide you with printed images and hard copies for you to take home and share.
What is a nuchal translucency scan?
What does a nuchal translucency scan involve?
Is a nuchal translucency scan safe?
How to prepare for a nuchal translucency scan
What happens after a nuchal translucency scan?
How much does a private nuchal translucency scan cost?
Why choose Welbeck?
Booking a private nuchal translucency scan
FAQs