What Are The Important Scans During Pregnancy?

1. Early Pregnancy Dating Scan:

An early pregnancy scan, often referred to as a dating scan or viability scan, is usually performed between 6 to 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Purpose:

1. Confirm Pregnancy: It verifies that the pregnancy is intrauterine (in the uterus) and not ectopic.
2. Estimate Due Date: It helps establish a more accurate due date based on the size of the embryo or fetus.
3. Check for Multiple Pregnancies: It can identify if you’re carrying twins or more.
4. Assess Development: It evaluates the heartbeat and early development of the fetus.

What to Expect:

• Procedure: Typically, a transabdominal ultrasound is performed, though a transvaginal ultrasound may be used for better clarity in early stages.
• Duration: The scan usually takes about 15-30 minutes.
• Preparation: You might be advised to have a full bladder for better imaging.

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2. NT Scan:

An NT scan, or Nuchal Translucency scan, is a specialized ultrasound performed between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy.

Purpose:

1. Assess Risk for Chromosomal Abnormalities: The scan measures the nuchal translucency, which is the fluid-filled space at the back of the baby’s neck. Increased fluid can indicate a higher risk for conditions like Down syndrome (trisomy 21) or other chromosomal abnormalities.
2. Early Detection of Potential Issues: It helps identify potential fetal heart problems and other congenital issues.

What to Expect:

• Procedure: It is typically done as a transabdominal ultrasound, where a gel is applied to your abdomen, and a transducer is used to capture images.
• Duration: The scan generally lasts about 20-30 minutes.
• Preparation: There is usually no special preparation required, but it’s good to check with your provider

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3. Anomaly Scan:

An anomaly scan, also known as a mid-pregnancy scan or detailed anatomy scan, is typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy.

Purpose:

1. Check Fetal Development: The scan assesses the baby’s growth and checks for any structural abnormalities in organs and systems.
2. Identify Congenital Anomalies: It looks for potential issues such as heart defects, spina bifida, and limb abnormalities.
3. Confirm Due Date and Placental Position: It can help ensure the baby is growing as expected and check the location of the placenta.

What to Expect:

• Procedure: The scan is done using transabdominal ultrasound. A gel is applied to your abdomen, and a transducer is used to obtain images.
• Duration: The scan usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
• Preparation: You might be advised to have a full bladder for clearer images, but this can vary by practice.

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4. Cardiac Assessment Scan:

A cardiac assessment scan during pregnancy, often referred to as a fetal echocardiogram, is a specialized ultrasound focused on evaluating the baby’s heart. Typically performed between 18 and 24 weeks of pregnancy, but may be done earlier if there are specific concerns or risk factors.

Purpose:

1. Assess Heart Structure and Function: It provides detailed images of the fetal heart to check for structural anomalies, such as congenital heart defects.
2. Evaluate Heart Rhythm: It can help assess the heart rate and rhythm to ensure they are within normal ranges.
3. Identify Associated Conditions: The scan can also evaluate any potential impacts on the heart from other abnormalities or maternal health conditions.

What to Expect:

• Procedure: The scan is usually done as a transabdominal ultrasound. You may be asked to lie down, and gel will be applied to your abdomen. A transducer is used to capture images of the heart.
• Duration: The echocardiogram can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on what needs to be evaluated.
• Preparation: Generally, there is no specific preparation required, but it’s best to check with your healthcare provider.

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5. Growth Scan:

A growth scan, often referred to as a fetal growth scan or third-trimester scan, is typically performed in the later stages of pregnancy to monitor the baby’s growth and overall well-being. Typically performed between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, though the exact timing may vary based on individual circumstances or concerns.

Purpose:

1. Monitor Fetal Growth: To assess the baby’s growth in relation to gestational age, ensuring they are growing at a healthy rate.
2. Check Amniotic Fluid Levels: To evaluate the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby, which is important for development.
3. Assess Placental Function: To ensure the placenta is functioning well and providing adequate nutrients and oxygen to the baby.
4. Identify Potential Issues: To detect any concerns such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or macrosomia (excessive growth).

What to Expect:

• Procedure: The scan is usually done using transabdominal ultrasound. You’ll lie down, and gel will be applied to your abdomen while a transducer is used to capture images of the baby.
• Duration: The scan usually lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.
• Preparation: There is generally no special preparation required, but it’s best to confirm with your healthcare provider.