Anomaly Scan: Detailed Assessment of Your Baby’s Development
The anomaly scan, also known as the mid-pregnancy or level-2 ultrasound, is a detailed examination usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This scan carefully evaluates the baby’s physical development and helps doctors identify any structural abnormalities at an early stage.
During the scan, the doctor examines different organs and body structures of the baby to ensure they are developing normally. The anomaly scan also helps monitor the baby’s growth, evaluate the position of the placenta, and measure the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby.
This examination is an important part of prenatal care because it allows doctors to detect certain birth defects early and plan appropriate medical care during the remainder of the pregnancy and at delivery if needed.
What Does an Anomaly Scan Involve?
The anomaly scan is a comprehensive ultrasound that provides detailed images of the developing baby. A trained sonographer carefully examines several aspects of fetal development during this scan.
Detailed Examination: The ultrasound checks the baby’s head, brain, face, spine, heart, lungs, stomach, kidneys, limbs, and other organs to ensure they are forming properly.
Growth Measurements: The baby’s head size, abdominal circumference, and limb lengths are measured to confirm that growth is within the expected range for the gestational age.
Placenta and Amniotic Fluid Assessment: The scan evaluates the position of the placenta and measures the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby, which are both important for a healthy pregnancy.
What Can Be Detected in an Anomaly Scan?
The anomaly scan can help identify several structural conditions that may affect the baby’s development.
Major Birth Defects: Some conditions that may be detected include cleft lip, congenital heart defects, spina bifida, and hydrocephalus.
Possible Chromosomal Indicators: While the scan cannot diagnose chromosomal abnormalities, certain ultrasound markers may indicate an increased risk.
Multiple Pregnancies: If you are expecting twins or more babies, the scan helps determine the number of fetuses and evaluate how they share the placenta.
What to Expect During the Scan
Duration: The anomaly scan usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the baby's position and the level of detail required.
Preparation: In some cases, you may be advised to drink water before the scan so that your bladder is partially full, which can improve image clarity.
Comfort: A warm gel is applied to the abdomen, and a handheld ultrasound probe is moved gently across the skin to capture images. The procedure is painless and safe for both mother and baby.
Important: Although anomaly scans are very useful for detecting many conditions, they cannot identify every birth defect. A normal scan significantly reduces the likelihood of major abnormalities but cannot guarantee a completely problem-free pregnancy.