As your pregnancy progresses, ensuring the health and well-being of your baby becomes a top priority. One of the most critical assessments during this period is the Fetal Anomaly Scan, typically conducted between 18 to 20 weeks of gestation. This detailed ultrasound examination provides invaluable insights into the development of your baby’s organs and can help identify potential birth defects, making it an essential part of prenatal care.
What is the Purpose of the Anomaly Scan?
The primary aim of the anomaly scan is to monitor the growth and physical development of your fetus. Here are some key objectives of this important examination:
Growth Monitoring: The scan allows healthcare providers to assess the physical growth of your baby, ensuring that they are developing at a healthy rate.
Detailed Examination: Each part of the fetal body is carefully examined, including the brain, face, spine, heart, stomach, bowel, kidneys, and limbs. This thorough evaluation helps in identifying any structural abnormalities.
Detection of Birth Defects: The scan is crucial for detecting various congenital defects, such as cleft lip and palate, hydrocephalus, and heart septal defects. Early identification can lead to timely interventions.
Amniotic Fluid Assessment: The scan estimates the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby, which is vital for their growth and protection.
Evaluation of the Umbilical Cord and Placenta: The health and positioning of the umbilical cord and placenta are also checked to ensure they are functioning correctly.
How to prepare for Your Anomaly Scan?
Proper preparation can enhance the quality of the ultrasound images. Here’s how you can prepare for your anomaly scan:
Full Bladder: To obtain clear images, it is advisable to keep your bladder full. Drink two to three glasses of water an hour before your scheduled scan to ensure optimal conditions.
What to Expect During the Scan?
During the anomaly scan, a trained sonographer will apply a small amount of gel to your abdomen and use a transducer—a wand-shaped device—to capture live images of your baby. The examination is non-invasive and typically lasts about 30 to 45 minutes.
In cases where abnormalities are detected, your doctor may recommend additional tests for further evaluation and to discuss appropriate medical care for your baby upon birth.
Is the fetal anomaly scan safe for both the mother and baby?
The fetal anomaly scan is entirely safe. Ultrasound technology utilizes sound waves that do not pose any harm to either you or your baby. It is strongly recommended that all pregnant women undergo this scan between 18 to 20 weeks of gestation.
The Fetal Anomaly Scan is a vital tool in ensuring the health of both mother and baby during pregnancy. If you are approaching this stage of your pregnancy, make it a priority to schedule your scan.
For expert care and guidance, consult Dr. Navtej Nalwa, a trusted specialist in maternal and fetal health. Book your appointment today to ensure the best possible start for your little one!
