A Nuchal Translucency scan looks at the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck. The amount of fluid can be indicative of chromosomal abnormalities or cardiac conditions.
The timing of this scan is important as the fluid in the neck generally gets reabsorbed by the body after 14 weeks of gestation.
During this scan, your sonographer will also look for basic anatomical structures as well as the early development of your placenta.
Abnormalities identified may increase the risk of genetic or structural conditions.
If you are having combined screening for chromosomal conditions and/or preterm preeclampsia in addition to the assessment of your baby's anatomy, your doctor will have given you a form for a blood test. This test should be completed at least three working days prior. The pathology results and the scan measurements are used together to provide your report.
Nuchal Translucency FAQs
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Our team will provide specific instructions at the time of booking, and these should be followed carefully.
If your doctor has requested a preeclampsia screening, please let our team know at the time of booking, as more time is needed for these appointments.
On arrival, please present to reception. You will be asked to complete a short questionnaire about your medical history.
A full bladder is required for this scan. Please drink 500ml of water one hour before your appointment and try not to empty your bladder. If you experience difficulty holding your bladder, please mention this at the time of booking.
To complete this scan, your abdomen will be exposed. To allow our team easy access to the area, please come dressed in a separate top and bottoms.
Due to the medical nature of the scan, we ask that you be accompanied by only one other person. If you need to bring another child, please ensure they are supervised at all times.
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You will be asked to lie down on a bed, and your abdomen will need to be visible.
The sonographer will do their best to protect your clothing as they apply a warmed gel to your abdomen.
This gel helps the sonographer move the transducer over your abdomen and towards the pelvic/ovarian area.
During a nuchal translucency scan, the sonographer will perform multiple measurements, including the fluid at the back of the baby’s neck.
In some cases, a transvaginal ultrasound is also performed.
The sonographer and radiologist will work together during an appointment to ensure all the necessary images are captured. This means that sometimes the radiologist will come into the room. If this is the case, you will be consulted before this happens.
The results of your nuchal translucency scan will be sent directly to your referring doctor. Please ensure you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results with them.
As an accredited member of the International Research Programme for Nuchal Translucency Screening, follow-up of the outcome of your pregnancy is important. Therefore, we may contact you either by mail or phone for follow-up after you have delivered your baby. Please indicate to us at the time of your examination if you do not wish to be contacted.
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Queensland X-Ray provides patients with all of their images via our Patient Portal. Shortly after your first visit to Queensland X-Ray, you will receive a text message about accessing your results through our Patient Portal. This secure portal allows you to view and download your medical images and results at any time. It is compatible with most internet browsers and mobile devices, ensuring accessibility from anywhere in Australia.
Please note you are not permitted to take photos or video during the scan. This is a medical procedure; the health of your baby is our primary concern, and we ask for your support and understanding.
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A nuchal translucency scan can take up to one hour. This allows the sonographer to capture all the necessary images to ensure a thorough and accurate assessment of your baby’s and placenta's development.
How much will it cost?
Fees for radiology procedures will vary depending on a variety of factors. We will advise you about the cost of your service at the time of booking but if you do have any questions, contact us and one of our team will be happy to help with your query. You can read more about our billing information here.
How do I access my images?
At Queensland X-Ray, we provide our patients with their images and results online. To access your images and results, you’ll need to register for an account when you visit one of our practices. If you’ve already registered, you can access the Patient Portal here.