The pregnancy journey is filled with moments of wonder and anticipation. One important milestone along the way is the anomaly scan, a detailed ultrasound performed typically between 18 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. This scan plays a crucial role in assessing your baby’s development and ensuring everything is progressing well. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your family, here is everything you need to know beforehand about this important scan.

What Is an Anomaly Scan?

The anomaly scan, often called the mid-pregnancy scan or 20-week scan, is a thorough ultrasound examination that checks your baby’s anatomy in detail. It looks closely at various organs and structures, such as:

  • The brain and spine for neural tube defects
  • The heart’s chambers and valves to detect any congenital conditions
  • The face and lips, checking for abnormalities like a cleft lip or palate
  • The stomach, kidneys, bladder, and limbs to ensure proper formation
  • The position of the placenta and the level of amniotic fluid

This scan also measures your baby’s growth, providing an estimated weight and size, and can reveal the baby’s sex if you wish to know.

Why Is the Anomaly Scan Important?

  • It helps detect structural abnormalities early when interventions or special monitoring might be possible.
  • Confirms normal growth and development midway through pregnancy.
  • Provides peace of mind or prepares parents for necessary support after birth.
  • Assesses placental health, which impacts nutrient supply to the baby.

Doctors use this scan to make informed decisions about ongoing prenatal care, aiming for the healthiest possible outcome.

When Should You Have the Anomaly Scan?

The ideal window for this scan is between 18 weeks and 22 weeks plus 6 days of pregnancy. Having the scan within this period is crucial because:

  • Key organs are sufficiently developed to be examined properly.
  • Measurements outside this timeframe may be less accurate.

Hospitals offering this service typically schedule anomaly scans around the 20th week, often taking about 30 to 45 minutes to complete.

How to Prepare for Your Anomaly Scan

Preparation is simple but important to get clear images:

  • Arrive with a comfortably full bladder, as it helps push the uterus into a better position for the scan.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothes for easy access to the abdomen.
  • Remove jewellery or other accessories that may interfere with the ultrasound.
  • It’s a good idea to bring a support person, but check hospital policies, as some may restrict the number of visitors.
  • Relax and remain still during the scan for the best possible images.

The scan is painless and non-invasive, using harmless ultrasound waves to create detailed images. 

What Happens During the Scan?

  • You will lie on a couch, and a clear gel will be applied to your abdomen.
  • The sonographer will move the transducer across your belly to capture images.
  • Slight pressure might be applied to get better views.
  • The sonographer will usually explain what you see on the screen and may request that you adjust your position or bladder if needed.
  • After the scan, the results are explained, and images or recordings may be shared with you. 

Choosing the Right Place for Your Scan

Whether you’re looking for the best hospital for pregnancy in Chennai or any other city or town, it’s essential to choose a facility that has experienced sonographers and the latest ultrasound technology. Such centres:

  • Offer comfort and reassurance during the scan
  • Provide accurate and comprehensive reports
  • Support timely follow-up care if any abnormalities are suspected 

Final Thoughts

The anomaly scan is an important part of pregnancy. It provides a detailed view of your baby’s growth and development, helping you prepare for the months ahead with knowledge and confidence. By knowing what to expect and choosing expert care, you can approach your scan with peace of mind, ready to celebrate this special time.