Congratulations on reaching the halfway mark of your pregnancy! This is an exciting milestone since it marks a significant stage in your baby’s development. At this point, you have the opportunity to get a closer look at your baby’s face and learn more about their growth and development through an anomaly scan.
In this blog, we’ll explore what an anomaly scan is, why it’s performed during pregnancy, and what you can expect during the procedure.
What is an Anomaly Scan?
A fetal anomaly scan, also known as a 20-week or mid-pregnancy scan, is a prenatal ultrasound procedure performed during the second trimester, typically between 18 and 22 weeks. It includes a detailed examination of the baby’s size and physical development, uterus, placenta position, umbilical cord, and amniotic fluid. This scan is an essential screening tool that detects structural abnormalities and potential health concerns, allowing appropriate medical interventions if necessary.
Why is an Anomaly Scan Performed?
An anomaly scan evaluates your fetus’s growth, organs, and other body parts. This scan ensures your baby is developing properly and checks for signs of congenital disabilities or structural abnormalities in specific organs.
Your doctor uses this pregnancy scan to:
- Confirm your pregnancy’s gestational age.
- Determine the number of fetuses and if twins are identical or not.
- Examine and measure every part of your baby’s body to determine proper growth.
- Monitor the fetal heart rate for abnormal rhythms.
- Assess limb development for any deformities like missing fingers or toes.
- Check facial features, including the eyes, nose, lips, and chin.
- Thoroughly examine the brain, neck, spinal cord, bones, heart, lungs, kidneys, bladder, and abdomen for congenital deformities.
- Monitor your uterus, ovaries, and cervix.
- Examine the umbilical cord for blood flow and where it connects to the placenta.
- Examine the position of the placenta to ensure it is not covering your cervix.
- Ensure the amniotic fluid level is within the normal range.
Your doctor will also use this scan to examine the following rare conditions:
- Edward’s Syndrome or T18
- Patau’s Syndrome of T13
- Lethal Skeletal Dysplasia
- Bilateral Renal Agenesis
- Gastroschisis
- Anencephaly
- Serious cardiac abnormalities
- Cleft Lip
- Open Spina Bifida
- Exomphalos
- Diaphragmatic Hernia
How to Prepare for a 20-week Ultrasound Scan?
A 20-week ultrasound scan is a basic procedure that every pregnant woman must undergo. To efficiently prepare for your pregnancy scan, consider the following tips:
- Drink plenty of water before your appointment to ensure a clear view of your baby on the computer screen.
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes to your appointment for easy access to your abdomen.
- Remember to bring the essential medical files to your appointment.
- Prepare any questions you want to ask the doctor during the ultrasound.
- Lastly, don’t worry too much. A fetal anomaly scan is a routine procedure, so relax and enjoy the experience while monitoring your baby’s growth and development.
How is an Anomaly Scan Done?
The procedure of an anomaly scan involves the following steps:
- Lie on the ultrasound exam table or a couch and uncover your abdomen.
- The sonographer will apply the gel on your abdomen to ensure good contact between the probe transducer and the skin.
- Using a handheld probe, your sonographer will move it over the abdomen to examine your baby’s body.
- As the probe moves, a black-and-white 2-D image of your baby will appear on the ultrasound screen. Occasionally, your sonographer will apply slightly more pressure to obtain a better view of the baby.
- The complete process of a mid-pregnancy scan takes about 30 minutes.
Is Anomaly Scan Safe?
Yes, an anomaly scan is considered safe for both the mother and baby. It is an essential scan that helps to detect significant anomalies, allowing your doctor to provide appropriate care and support.
What are the Anomaly Scan Charges in India?
The cost of an anomaly scan in India ranges from approximately INR 2000 – INR 3500. However, the anomaly scan charges can vary depending on certain factors, including:
- The type of healthcare facility
- The location (state or city) where the test is conducted
- Any additional services provided by the doctor
It is better to consult your doctor or healthcare facility to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding anomaly scan charges in a particular location.
Take Away
An anomaly scan is an essential prenatal screening for your baby’s growth and development. It detects abnormalities and ensures a healthy pregnancy. For more information or concerns, book an appointment at Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital.
