How Should You Prepare for an Anomaly Scan / Anatomy scan?
What is an Anomaly Scan?
An anomaly scan is a detailed ultrasound pregnancy scan performed in mid-pregnancy. It checks how the baby is growing and whether major organs look normal. That means the baby’s anatomical structure (fetal anatomy) is carefully examined. Therefore, it is also called an anatomy scan. This scan uses sound waves to create images of your baby inside the womb.
To achieve this, the doctor or sonographer uses a small device called an ultrasound probe. They gently move the probe across your belly. This allows them to view different parts of your baby’s body. Parents often ask, “Anomaly scan in which month is best?” It is usually done in the fifth month of pregnancy. The procedure is safe and painless for both mother and baby.
When can I have the Anomaly Scan?
The scan is typically performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. When anomaly scan is done in this timeframe, your baby develops enough for clear imaging.
What Does an Anomaly Scan Look For?
The anomaly scan examines many aspects of your baby’s development, including:
- The scan checks your baby’s brain and skull formation to ensure proper neural development.
- Doctors examine the heart structure and monitor blood flow to detect any cardiac (heart-related) abnormalities.
- The spine is also carefully reviewed to confirm it is forming correctly without any defects.
- Facial features, including the lips and nose, are checked during the scan. Doctors look for conditions like a cleft lip or palate. It occurs when the lip or the roof of the mouth has an opening or gap.
- All four limbs are measured and examined to ensure proper bone growth and development.
- Internal organs like the kidneys, stomach, and bladder are assessed for normal function and position.
- The scan also measures the amount of amniotic fluid present around your baby. This is the protective liquid that surrounds the baby and supports its growth.
Why is an Anomaly Scan Needed?
There are several important reasons that make the anomaly scan essential during pregnancy. Here is a list of a few of them:
- Early detection of congenital disabilities (birth defects) allows doctors to plan appropriate treatment.
- It can identify conditions that might require specialised care immediately after birth.
- The scan offers peace of mind for parents when the baby appears healthy and normal.
- Parents also get the chance to prepare emotionally and practically for their baby’s needs.
- In some cases, certain conditions can be treated while the baby is still in the womb.
- Medical teams can prepare for any delivery complications if issues are found.
What Are the Limitations of Anomaly Scans?
While anomaly scans are highly effective, they can have certain limitations. Therefore, it is better that parents understand these issues:
- The scan cannot detect all abnormalities. Some conditions develop later and may not yet be visible at 18-22 weeks.
- The baby’s position or movement can limit how clearly the sonographer sees certain structures. Therefore, if the baby is curled up or facing away, some parts may be obscured.
- Some maternal factors can reduce image quality. These include obesity, scarring, or low amniotic fluid.
- There is a chance of false positives, where something looks abnormal but is not. This causes unwanted stress.
How to Prepare for an Anomaly Scan?
Proper preparation ensures the best possible results from your anomaly scan in pregnancy:
- Wear comfortable loose clothing so that your abdomen (belly) is easily accessible.
- Bring along your medical documents. That means your previous scan reports, prenatal records, and any related test results.
- Avoid wearing lotions, oils, or creams on your abdomen on the day of the scan. This helps improve ultrasound probe contact with your skin. The ultrasound probe sends and receives sound waves to create pictures of your baby.
- You may drink enough water before the scan (if advised). A partly full bladder can help in some clinics.
- Try to schedule the scan when you are well rested. And you do not have to go on an empty stomach, as it is OK to eat unless told otherwise.
- Arrive a little earlier than your appointment time to ensure you are calm. This way, the paperwork can be done, and the scan can begin without rushing.
- Consider having a friend or family member accompany you for moral support.
- Ask ahead how much time anomaly scan takes at your clinic or hospital. Usually, the anomaly scan takes 30-45 minutes, depending on the baby’s position and complexity.
Conclusion
The anomaly scan can be performed at most hospitals and private clinics. The anomaly scan price varies by location and healthcare provider. It is best to confirm and compare the anomaly scan cost before finalising your appointment. If you have fertility concerns or past pregnancy issues, talk to your doctor before the scan. Some women also experience problems with their thyroid in pregnancy. This may need extra monitoring during prenatal care.
Remember, this scan is more than just a medical check. It is your first detailed look at your developing baby. So stay positive and use this opportunity to bond with your baby. You will get to watch them move and see their features on screen. Additionally, most anomaly scans show healthy, normally developing babies. This gives parents the peace of mind they need for their pregnancy journey.
FAQs
You should wear loose and comfortable clothing for the scan. Bring your medical records and follow any instructions your doctor gives you.
Yes, you can eat unless your doctor has advised otherwise.
No, you do not need an empty stomach for an anomaly scan.
You cannot control your baby’s position during the scan. However, walking around or changing your position may sometimes help.
Yes, the anomaly scan is safe for both you and your baby.
An anomaly scan is capable of showing the baby’s gender. However, in India, it is illegal for doctors to reveal this information. You will not be told whether it is a boy or a girl.
Stay calm and talk to your doctor, who will explain the findings and guide your next steps.