Learn about the NT NB USG scan with our simple patient guide. Understand the procedure, its purpose during pregnancy, and what the results mean.
Overview
This is a specific USG test, which is used in pregnant women for the specific purpose. Medical terminology and lots of tests when pregnant and a very exciting journey being pregnant. An NT NB USG may be recommended by your doctor during the last trimester. It may sound like a lot of medical mumbo-jumbo, but it's okay. This is a very regular, safe and thrilling scan and will be an opportunity to see your little one developing!
What's the meaning of NT NB USG?
Special scan carried out usually from the 11th to 14th week of pregnancy. Let's first look at the meaning of those letters:
USG: another way of saying Ultrasound. Provides a safe, non-radiating technology that is used to make an actual picture of your baby while it is happening, using gentle sound waves, and displaying it real-time on the monitor.
NT (Nuchal Translucency):the thickness of the clear fluid in the back of the baby's neck. This fluid is found in all babies, but is in excess in some genetically predisposed babies.
NB (Nasal Bone):The doctor will also make sure that the baby's nasal bone (the middle of the nose) has begun to grow.
Also the doctor will check the baby's heartbeat, growth as well as estimated due date.
For what purpose is this scan employed?
This is a periodical scan/screening scan. Doctors use the NT and NB measurements to look for chromosomal abnormalities, which are the most common – in most cases Down Syndrome.
Remember: This is not a diagnostic test, always take a screening test into consideration. It does not make any firm diagnosis about your baby having a condition, it merely gives the doctor a hint as to whether it's slightly increased or decreased, and that helps the doctor determine whether more tests are needed. Basically, it's a very feeling of security all in all!
What can you expect in the scanner?
Preparation: You may need to make an appointment to come in with a full bladder. A few glasses of water around an hour before the checkups will push up the uterus, providing a good view of the baby in the ultrasound machine.
The Process: You'll be on your back on a bed, and then the technician will put some warm gel on your lower abdomen. These will then bring a small wand (transducer) over the gel. You will have the opportunity to observe the screen and your baby will be able to check out the movement around!
Time: It takes approximately 20-30 minutes. If the baby is shy or sleeping in a position which makes it hard to see the back of the neck, it may take a bit longer.
Is the NT NB USG test painful?
No, the test is not painful and no radiation is used in a USG Test since it uses sound waves. No pain whatsoever and it's 100% safe for you and your growing little baby.
Where to go for the NT NB test in Delhi?
Patients can visit Ganesh Diagnostic Centre for NT NB Test in Delhi for affordable pricing and quality results. This diagnostic centre also provides all types of USG tests for the patient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
With this do I require a blood test?
Often, yes. The most accurate screening is made when the NT NB scan is used in conjunction with a simple blood test known as the "Double Marker" test.
May I have to fast prior to the scan?
Yes, it's fine to eat what you are used to eating. If you're walking to your clinic with a full bladder, be sure to remember to drink the water!
So, am I going to be informed of the sex?
Normally at this stage of the pregnancy (11-14 weeks) it is too soon to get an accurate gender determination from ultrasound.
