12 week scan

Burberry0421

Just wondering what to expect. I thought it was just a regular ol' ultrasound, but then they told me it was an hour long. Holy buckets! Is the scan where they are looking for markers that indicate things like Downs? I'm too smart/scared to google

AmandaFaith

I'm guessing what you're referring to is the NT scan, which is normally done between 11-13 weeks. If that's the case, they will take measurements of the thickness on the back of the babies' necks to try and rule out Down syndrome. (I had an integrated screening done that involved bloodwork too, to try and rule out multiple other issues.) The reason it takes so long is because you're having multiples and they have to get both (all?) of your little ones to cooperate so they can get the measurements they need.

Burberry0421

AmandaFaith Thanks! That's what I was thinking. This is the NT scan, and I figured with 2 babies, they just need more time. I didn't have this scan done with my daughter so I wasn't sure what they were doing.

CaliCarly77

They told me it takes an hour but it was much much shorter than that - maybe maximum 35 minutes of actual scan time. Maybe they tell you an hour for paperwork and such? I had it at 12 and 18 weeks and both were well under an hour. Though if babies aren't cooperating it could take longer, I guess?

Good luck!! 

KatieGummow

During my NT scan they also took measurements of their hearts and brains.  The doctor then came in after the technician and confirmed all the numbers.  But it is primarily checking for Downs, like PP said, measuring the fluid behind the neck, which is tricky if they move around.  

Pittpanther

My NT scan is where I found out it was twins! It took at least 50 minutes for us.

LegalLadyBug

Mine took about an hour, we took two breaks where I sat up, moved around, and drank water to try and get them to change position.

LittleLady77

The best part about the NT scan was getting the first good look at the babies.