SMART  NT

SMART NT is a structured pathway we use when the baby’s nuchal translucency (NT) is measured at around 10 weeks and is found to be increased. It combines a highly detailed 10 Week Scan, advanced blood tests (KNOVA NIPT) and follow-up scans to look early and safely for the main chromosomal, genetic and structural causes of increased NT.

Increased NT means there is more fluid than expected at the back of the baby’s neck for that gestational age. At 10 weeks this can be an early sign of chromosomal conditions (such as Down syndrome), certain genetic syndromes, heart defects or other structural problems; but it can also be a temporary or benign finding. SMART NT is designed to sort these possibilities out step by step.

Sometimes, because of the baby’s position, the tilt of the uterus, your build, or simply because at 10 weeks the fluid layer is extremely thin, the NT cannot be measured reliably. In this situation we still look very carefully at the neck region and save images. If we do not see a clear pocket of increased fluid, this is reassuring specifically in relation to increased NT, and from our extensive experience a truly increased NT at 10 weeks is usually very obvious.
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If the reason we cannot measure NT is that the fluid layer is simply too small to see, that is generally good news. However, this does not replace other screening: we will usually recommend at least basic NIPT and an early anomaly scan, and a repeat scan around 12 weeks (either with us or with your usual antenatal care provider, such as the NHS in the UK).

SMART NT is usually reserved for cases where the NT at around 10 weeks can be clearly measured and is found to be increased (more than 95th centile).

You should consider genetic testing if you have a family history of breast, ovarian, or related cancers, especially if they were diagnosed at a young age. It’s also recommended if a relative has a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, or if multiple family members on one side have had cancer. At Jeen, our team helps you understand if testing is right for you. Even if your family history isn’t obvious, hidden risk can still be there, and testing brings clarity.

You should consider genetic testing for breast cancer if you notice any unusual lumps or changes in your breast tissue, or if breast or ovarian cancer runs in your family, especially if diagnosed under age 50 or affecting multiple relatives It’s also worth it if a close relative has a known BRCA mutation.

But you don’t need a strong family history to benefit from these tests. At Jeen, we offer at-home testing and expert support to help you decide the right time, whether you’re planning proactively or following up on your family history.

In most services NT is measured at 11–14 weeks. In SMART NT, we bring this forward to about 10 weeks, using high-resolution ultrasound. This allows us to spot increased NT earlier, start investigations sooner and, if needed, give you answers and options earlier in pregnancy.

A normal NT at 10 weeks is reassuring for that specific marker, but it does not rule out most fetal anomalies or genetic syndromes. In fact the majority of affected babies actually have a normal NT. The SMART NT pathway is reserved for pregnancies with increased NT at 10 weeks, so if your baby’s NT is clearly normal you would not usually enter the SMART NT protocol.

However, we would still strongly recommend:
- At least a basic NIPT for Down’s syndrome (trisomy 21), and usually also trisomies 18 and 13.
- Early anomaly scans with a fetal medicine specialist (for example at around 12–13 weeks and again later in the second trimester) to look in detail at the baby’s structure.
- For parents who want broader information, we may also discuss an extended NIPT panel such as KNOVA, which can screen for additional chromosomal and selected genetic conditions not associated with increased NT.

So, while you are not in the “increased NT” group, careful screening with NIPT and early anomaly scans is still very important.

In the UK, most people are invited for NHS breast screening every three years from age 50 to 53 until one turns 71. But if you have a higher genetic risk like a BRCA mutation, you may need annual screening, starting earlier. That’s where genetic testing comes in. It helps uncover inherited risks so your screening plan can be personalised, not one-size-fits-all. With the right insight, you can take steps to protect your health sooner.

Breast cancer genetic testing is available on the NHS if you meet certain criteria like a strong family history. Your GP or specialist can refer you to a genetic counselling service, but NHS testing may be limited to key genes and involve longer wait times.

Private genetic testing, like Jeen’s, is available without referral, offers broader gene panels, and delivers faster results. We provide clear pricing and expert guidance, so you can take control without delay.

Jeen’s genetic testing for breast cancer is priced at £660. This all-inclusive cost covers your at-home DNA kit, lab analysis using high-depth 50x sequencing, and a personalised consultation with one of our expert genetic counsellors.

The test analyses 50 carefully chosen genes, each backed by strong scientific evidence linked to prostate cancer risk. You’ll get accurate insights into your inherited risk and support to help you decide on next steps with no extra charges or referrals needed.