The first trimester is an important stage of pregnancy, and timely screening can help you and your obstetrician understand your baby’s early development. A nuchal translucency (NT) scan, often called the 12-week scan, is a specialised ultrasound performed during early pregnancy. At Dr. Dua’s Diagnostics & Imaging Centre in Chandigarh, expectant parents from Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula can enquire about first-trimester ultrasound screening and appointment availability.
What is an NT scan?
An NT scan measures the small, fluid-filled space at the back of the baby’s neck. The measurement is considered alongside the baby’s size, gestational age and other screening information to estimate the chance of certain chromosomal conditions, including Down syndrome (trisomy 21). Depending on your pregnancy and your clinician’s advice, NT measurement may be combined with maternal blood tests or other screening options.
When should you get an NT scan?
The NT scan is usually performed between 11 weeks and 13 weeks 6 days of pregnancy. The timing matters because the measurement is interpreted within a specific window of fetal development. Contact the centre in advance to check appointment availability and discuss any preparation instructions.
Why is the NT scan important?
An NT scan may help to:
- Estimate the chance of selected chromosomal conditions as part of first-trimester screening.
- Assess early fetal development and review relevant ultrasound findings.
- Help your obstetrician decide whether further screening, counselling or diagnostic testing should be discussed.
- Provide information that supports informed decisions about the next steps in pregnancy care.
Important: An NT scan is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. A higher-than-expected measurement does not by itself confirm that the baby has a chromosomal or structural condition, and a reassuring result cannot rule out every condition. Your obstetrician may recommend additional screening, genetic counselling or diagnostic tests depending on the complete assessment.
What happens during an NT scan?
The scan is usually performed through the abdomen. A sonographer or doctor applies ultrasound gel and moves a probe over the skin to obtain images. The examination is generally painless. Occasionally, a transvaginal ultrasound may be suggested if it is needed to obtain clearer images. The appointment commonly takes around 15–30 minutes, although it may take longer if the baby’s position makes the required views difficult to obtain.
How should you prepare for your appointment?
- Carry your previous ultrasound reports and relevant pregnancy records.
- Know the first day of your last menstrual period or bring your dating-scan report, if available.
- Follow the centre’s instructions about bladder filling or other preparation, as requirements can vary.
- Discuss the result with your obstetrician, who can interpret it alongside your history and any blood-test results.
NT scan in Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula
If you are looking for an NT scan in Chandigarh or travelling from Mohali or Panchkula, Dr. Dua’s Diagnostics & Imaging Centre, Chandigarh, offers fetal ultrasound services. Dr. Ashish Dua has specialised training in fetal imaging, including fellowship training in Women’s Imaging at PGIMER Chandigarh and advanced fetal cardiac imaging training at Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, USA. Please contact the centre to confirm the service, appointment availability and any instructions relevant to your pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions about NT scans
Is an NT scan the same as a 12-week scan?
The terms are often used together because the NT scan is usually performed during the 11-week to 13-weeks-and-6-days window. Your clinician may also assess other aspects of early pregnancy during the appointment.
Does an NT scan detect Down syndrome?
It does not diagnose Down syndrome. It helps estimate the chance of certain chromosomal conditions and may be interpreted with blood tests or other screening. Diagnostic testing may be discussed when indicated.
Is an NT scan painful or harmful?
The abdominal ultrasound is generally painless and uses sound waves rather than ionising radiation. A transvaginal scan may occasionally be recommended to obtain clearer images.
What if the NT measurement is high?
A higher measurement does not automatically mean that the baby has a condition. Your obstetrician may recommend a detailed review, further screening, genetic counselling or diagnostic testing based on the full clinical picture.
Can I get an NT scan in Mohali or Panchkula?
Patients from Mohali and Panchkula can enquire about appointments at Dr. Dua’s Diagnostics & Imaging Centre in Chandigarh. Confirm availability and travel timing with the centre before visiting.
Book an NT scan appointment
For information about an NT scan or first-trimester pregnancy ultrasound in Chandigarh, contact Dr. Dua’s Diagnostics & Imaging Centre to enquire about appointment availability and preparation instructions. If you are already under an obstetrician’s care, follow their advice on the appropriate timing for screening.
Enquire About an NT Scan
Fetal Medicine & Pregnancy Scans | Level 2 Anomaly Scan | Fetal Echocardiography | Genetic Counselling & Prenatal Testing
Dr. Dua’s Diagnostics- ULTRASOUND, MAMMOGRAPHY, Fetal Echo; Dr.Ashish Dua, MD(Ex. PGI)-Radiologist, Fetal & Breast Specialist
Address: SCO-16, Sector 16 D, Sector 16, Chandigarh, 160015
