The journey of pregnancy is filled with excitement and anxiety, and the baby’s healthy development is the top concern for every parent. Multiple ultrasound scans are performed during pregnancy. An Anomaly Scan is one of the most important scans, ensuring the development of the growing fetus. An Anomaly Scan is essential to get a thorough assessment of fetal development, detecting structural defects in the baby’s body and ensuring the overall health condition of the unborn baby in the womb. This blog article emphasizes the benefits as well as the purpose of an Anomaly Scan in pregnancy. It also includes the recommended timing of this ultrasound.
What is an anomaly scan in pregnancy?
The Anomaly Scan is also called anatomy scan, performed during pregnancy to monitor the growth of the fetus, assess the condition of the pelvic organs, and identify abnormalities in the baby’s body structure. As this screening scan is done between 18 and 23 weeks, it is also known as a 20-week scan.
In this ultrasound scan, a high-frequency sound wave is used to get a detailed image of the baby in the womb. This prenatal scan helps to evaluate fetal organs and to identify the location of the placenta.
What does an Anomaly Scan check?
With the help of this ultrasound scan, the entire body can be examined thoroughly. It checks:
- Structure and function of the heart
- Spine alignment
- The condition of the kidney, bladder, stomach, and abdomen
- Legs, hands, and feet
- Structure of face
- Location of placenta and umbilical cord
- Amount of Amniotic fluid
This scan recognises the abnormalities, such as defects in the heart or in other pelvic organs or limb deformities.
When is an Anomaly Scan performed?
An Anomaly Scan is recommended to be done during 18 to 23 weeks of pregnancy. It is not mandatory to have an ultrasound in pregnancy. This prenatal screening scan is performed by a trained sonographer or a specialist.
Read more: Must-Know Fetal Ultrasound Secrets for Every Mom-to-Be
Why important an anomaly scan in pregnancy?
An Anomaly Scan in pregnancy plays a vital role in assessing the condition of the organs and also in determining the potential risk factors in the baby’s development. The importance of the fetal scan is as follows:
- Monitor the fetal growth
The size of the fetus can be assessed through this prenatal scan. The gestational age and an estimated date of delivery can be determined by this test.
- Early detection of abnormalities
Identifying structural issues related to the heart, brain, kidneys, and limbs can be possible through this scan during pregnancy. Spina bifida and heart defects can be detected at an early stage. Limb abnormalities, issues in the kidney, cleft palate, or lip can also be recognised through this scan.
- Check the Placenta and Amniotic Fluid
An anomaly scan in pregnancy is essential to check the position as well as the function of the placenta. The amount of amniotic fluid is assessed by this scan to ensure a suitable environment for the baby’s growth.
- Evaluate chromosomal markers
An Anomaly Scan can detect potential chromosomal disorders such as Down syndrome. Understanding such disputes at an early stage is beneficial to take the necessary steps.
- Decision making
Early detection of any abnormalities is beneficial to take necessary measures before or after the delivery. Ensuring the proper fetal growth and development is essential to reduce the anxiety of the parents.
What to expect during the anomaly scan in High-Risk Pregnancy?
There are several steps in having this screening scan, and the steps are discussed in the following points:
1. Preparation for the scan – You will be told to come with a full bladder. It helps to get a clear visibility during the scan. Then you will be asked to lie down on a table, and the specialist will apply a gel to your abdomen.
2. Procedure of scanning – The specialist will use a probe, a handheld device for sending and receiving soundwaves. The specialist will move the probe on your abdomen to get a clear scan image on a monitor. It may take 30 to 45 minutes; the timing of the scan depends on the movement as well as the position of the fetus.
3. Quality of image – Visibility depends on several factors, such as the amount of amniotic fluid, the size of the fetus, and its movement.
4. Monitoring- The specialist will examine the limbs, heart, kidneys, spine, brain, and facial structure to ensure the growth of the baby in the womb. The placenta, umbilical cord, and other organs can also be checked in this scan. It helps to evaluate the condition of the maternal and fetal health and well-being.
Post scan procedure – After completing the scan, you will receive a scan copy, and your health care provider will explain to you the findings in the scan. If any abnormality is detected, the specialist will recommend the best solution after evaluating the scan report.
How often is the scan repeated?
Usually, an Anomaly Scan in pregnancy is performed once during 18 to 23 weeks of pregnancy. In high-risk pregnancies, if any issue is detected, then your health care provider can recommend you for this test again for further follow-up.
3D / 4D imaging can be done in an Anomaly scan
3D and 4D scan offers a more detailed image of the baby’s anatomy. Through a 3D scan, three-dimensional images as well as a static image can be obtained, while a 4D scan provides movement of the baby in the womb by using real-time motion.
Understanding Anomaly Scan Result
Your health care provider will discuss the scan report and suggest further procedures. The scan result includes,
- Measurement of the limb, abdomen, and other organs
- Analyze the chambers of the heart
- Position of placenta
- Volume of Amniotic Fluid
- Size of the fetus
Fetal Imaging Institute is one of the most trusted pregnancy care institutes in North Kolkata, ensuring proper care for you and your fetus. Our team of experienced and dedicated doctors and specialists provides complete care throughout your pregnancy. We are renowned for advanced technology-based equipment to assess the condition and position of your growing fetus. We excel in handling complex pregnancies by detecting the early symptoms using advanced technologies and innovative methodology.
Join us today to experience a risk-free pregnancy.
Conclusion
An anomaly scan offers a comprehensive overview of the health condition as well as the body growth of the unborn baby. Here, a detailed discussion on the importance of undergoing this prenatal scan is included. Every necessary information about the procedure is also highlighted in this blog. The purpose of an Anomaly screening scan is to ensure fetal growth, identify fetal abnormalities, and evaluate the overall structure and function of pelvic organs. A noteworthy advantage of this scan is that it helps to make important decisions regarding taking care of a baby before or after birth.
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