Pregnancy is a beautiful time filled with anticipation, excitement, and, understandably, questions. One important step in ensuring your baby’s health is the anomaly scan, also called the mid-pregnancy or 20-week scan. Knowing what to expect can make the experience less stressful and more reassuring.
What Is an Anomaly Scan?
An anomaly scan is a detailed ultrasound performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy (second trimester). Its main goal is to check your baby’s development, growth, and overall anatomy. Doctors use it to identify structural issues and assess vital organs, including the heart, kidneys, brain, and spine. It also helps assess the placenta, amniotic fluid, and the umbilical cord.
This scan is more thorough than routine ultrasounds, which usually focus on confirming pregnancy or tracking basic growth. Because of the detailed nature of the exam, it’s often referred to as a “level 2” ultrasound.
Why It Matters
The anomaly scan is important for both you and your baby. Detecting any potential concerns early allows doctors to plan treatments or additional tests if needed. Most babies are healthy, but the scan gives reassurance and helps guide care decisions.
What Happens During the Scan
● A trained sonographer performs the scan using an ultrasound device.
● You lie comfortably on your back while gel is applied to your abdomen.
● The sonographer moves the probe to capture images of your baby on a screen.
● The procedure is painless and usually takes 20-45 minutes.
● During the scan, the technician examines the baby’s head, spine, heart, stomach, kidneys, limbs, and facial features.
● Measurements are taken to ensure healthy growth.
Preparing for Your Scan
● Opt for relaxed-fitting clothes that make it easy to access your abdomen.
● Some clinics may ask you to have a partially full bladder to improve image clarity; follow your clinic’s instructions.
● Bring any previous ultrasound scans or relevant medical records for reference.
● Stay hydrated, as this can sometimes help improve ultrasound images.
● Try to arrive a few minutes early to relax and reduce any stress before the scan.
● Consider bringing a partner, friend, or support person if allowed, to share the experience.
Understanding Your Results
Most anomaly scans show normal development and offer peace of mind. Occasionally, minor findings may require follow-up tests. It’s important to remember that not every condition can be detected, and some issues may appear later in pregnancy or after birth. Your doctor will explain the results and guide you on the next steps if needed.
In Summary
The anomaly scan is an important part of prenatal care, providing valuable insights into your baby’s development and helping guide medical decisions. Understanding what to expect, preparing ahead of time, and discussing results with your doctor can make this milestone less stressful and more empowering.
It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves during the scan. Seeing detailed images of your baby can be joyful, while the possibility of unexpected findings may feel overwhelming. Sharing your concerns with your doctor or loved ones can provide reassurance and support.
Every pregnancy is unique, and while the scan is valuable, it is just one part of a comprehensive prenatal care plan that ensures the well-being of both mother and baby.
If you want to book an anomaly scan, contact Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, the best maternity hospital in Hyderabad. The facility is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by experienced OB-GYNs and fetal medicine specialists who provide expert care with compassion. Visit the website to book your appointment today.