Can I still have an NT scan after 14 weeks?

Feb 26, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

NT scan, also known as nuchal translucency scan, cannot be performed beyond 14 weeks of pregnancy. To ensure accurate screening results and allow timely implementation of necessary follow-up measures, pregnant women are advised to follow their doctor's guidance and complete all recommended prenatal screenings and examinations within the suggested timeframe. If a pregnant woman misses the window for the nuchal translucency scan, alternative prenatal screening methods may be considered.

NT scan, also known as nuchal translucency scan, cannot be performed beyond 14 weeks of gestation. To ensure accurate screening results and timely implementation of necessary follow-up measures, pregnant women are advised to follow their doctor's guidance and complete all prenatal screenings and examinations within the recommended timeframe. Detailed explanation is as follows:

Nuchal translucency scan is usually conducted between 11 weeks and 13 weeks + 6 days of pregnancy. During this period, the fetal nuchal translucency is more apparent, making it easier for doctors to measure using ultrasound technology. After 14 weeks, however, the nuchal translucency gradually disappears as the fetus grows and develops, making accurate measurement impossible.

Nuchal translucency scan is an important method of prenatal screening. By measuring the thickness of the nuchal translucency, it can assess the risk of fetal chromosomal abnormalities and certain congenital heart diseases. Therefore, undergoing nuchal translucency scan at the appropriate time is beneficial to maternal and fetal health.

If a pregnant woman misses the window for nuchal translucency scanning, although this examination can no longer be performed, other prenatal screening methods can be chosen to assess fetal health. For example, fetal nuchal fold thickness measurement evaluates the risk of fetal chromosomal abnormalities by measuring the thickness of the nuchal skin fold.

Prior to undergoing the nuchal translucency scan, pregnant women should make appropriate preparations, such as ensuring adequate sleep and avoiding excessive fatigue, to facilitate smooth implementation of the examination.

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What is the optimal time for NT examination in pregnant women?

Pregnant women usually undergo fetal nuchal translucency thickness examination between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation. During this period, the fetal nuchal translucency can be clearly visualized, and the measurement results are relatively accurate. Additionally, the fetal cranial ring has formed by this time, making the nuchal translucency clearly visible and relatively easy to measure.

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Can I keep the baby if I contracted influenza B in early pregnancy?

Influenza B, also known as type B flu, if contracted during the early stages of pregnancy, may allow for continuation of the pregnancy if the condition is mild and the fetus is developing normally. However, if the illness is severe, it is not recommended to continue the pregnancy from the perspective of eugenics and healthy childbearing. If there are any concerns, it is advised to seek medical consultation in advance. If the pregnancy is continued, the pregnant woman should also undergo routine prenatal examinations and necessary screenings for fetal abnormalities, such as NT scan and Down syndrome screening, to ensure the health of the fetus.

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Can a pituitary enhancement scan be performed during pregnancy?

Pituitary enhancement examination refers to dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pituitary gland. Generally speaking, dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI of the pituitary gland can be performed during pregnancy if necessary. However, consultation with a physician is recommended. Dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI of the pituitary gland is an imaging procedure that utilizes magnetic fields to generate images of the internal structures of the body, and therefore is considered relatively safe for both the pregnant woman and the fetus.

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Can NT screening detect Down syndrome?

Nuchal translucency (NT) examination is an ultrasound performed in the early stages of pregnancy, primarily measuring the thickness of fluid beneath the fetal neck skin. Its main purpose is to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus by measuring the thickness of the nuchal translucency area via ultrasound. This test cannot directly diagnose Down syndrome, but it can provide an indirect assessment of the fetus's risk for Down syndrome.