Anomaly Scan / Anatomy Scan: What Should You Expect?

The anomaly scan, also known as the anatomy scan or the 20-week scan, is a detailed ultrasound examination that assesses the development and health of your baby. This scan is a crucial part of prenatal care, providing essential information about the baby’s growth and detecting any structural abnormalities. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to expect from an anomaly scan.

What is an Anomaly Scan?

An anomaly scan is a detailed ultrasound examination performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. The primary purpose of this scan is to check the baby’s development and identify any structural anomalies or abnormalities. It is a standard part of prenatal care and is recommended for all pregnant women.

Why is an Anomaly Scan Important?

Detailed Examination: The scan provides a thorough assessment of the baby’s anatomy, including the brain, heart, spine, kidneys, and limbs.
Detecting Anomalies: It helps detect any structural abnormalities or congenital conditions, allowing for early intervention or management plans.
Assessing Growth: The scan measures the baby’s growth and checks for any growth restrictions.
Placenta and Amniotic Fluid: It assesses the position of the placenta and the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby, which are crucial for the baby’s development.

Preparing for the Anomaly Scan

Timing and Booking

Scheduling the Scan: Your healthcare provider will schedule the anomaly scan as part of your routine prenatal care, typically between 19 and 23 weeks of pregnancy.
Optimal Timing: The scan is usually performed around the 20th week for the most accurate and comprehensive assessment.

Preparation Tips

Hydration: Unlike earlier scans, a full bladder is not usually required for the anomaly scan, but it’s a good idea to drink a moderate amount of water before the appointment.
Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may need to partially undress or lift your top to expose your abdomen for the scan.
Support Person: Consider bringing your partner or a support person to share this important moment.

During the Anomaly Scan

The Procedure

Positioning: You will lie on an examination table. The ultrasound technician (sonographer) will apply a special gel to your abdomen to help conduct the sound waves.
Transducer: The sonographer will move a handheld device called a transducer over your abdomen. The transducer sends out sound waves that bounce off the baby and create images on a monitor.
Imaging: The sonographer will capture various images and measurements of the baby’s organs and structures, systematically examining each part.
Duration: The scan typically takes 20 minutes, depending on the baby’s position and the clarity of the images.

What You Will See

Live Images: You’ll see live images of your baby on the monitor. The sonographer will point out different parts of the baby’s anatomy, explaining what you are seeing.
Detailed Examination: The sonographer will check the baby’s head, brain, face, spine, heart, stomach, kidneys, bladder, arms, legs, hands, and feet.

Key Areas Assessed During the Anomaly Scan

Brain and Skull

Structure: The sonographer checks the shape and structure of the baby’s brain and skull.
Measurements: Key measurements include the biparietal diameter (BPD) and head circumference (HC).

Face and Lips

Cleft Lip and Palate: The scan checks for facial abnormalities, such as cleft lip and palate.

Spine

Alignment and Formation: The sonographer examines the spine’s alignment and formation, checking for abnormalities like spina bifida.

Heart

Chambers and Valves: The scan assesses the four chambers of the heart and the function of the heart valves.
Major Blood Vessels: The sonographer checks the major blood vessels leading to and from the heart.

Abdomen

Stomach and Kidneys: The scan checks the position and structure of the stomach and kidneys.
Bladder: The sonographer ensures the bladder fills and empties correctly.

Limbs

Arms and Legs: The scan assesses the length and structure of the arms and legs.
Hands and Feet: The sonographer checks for the presence of fingers and toes and any abnormalities.

Placenta and Amniotic Fluid

Placenta Position: The scan checks the position of the placenta to ensure it is not covering the cervix (placenta previa).
Amniotic Fluid Levels: The sonographer measures the amount of amniotic fluid to ensure it is within the normal range.

After the Anomaly Scan

Discussing the Results

Immediate Feedback: The sonographer will usually explain the findings during the scan. However, a detailed report will be prepared and sent to your healthcare provider.
Follow-Up: If any abnormalities or concerns are detected, your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and may recommend further tests or follow-up scans.

Handling Uncertainty

Additional Testing: In some cases, additional testing such as a fetal echocardiogram, MRI, or genetic testing may be recommended to get more detailed information.
Specialist Referral: If significant anomalies are found, you may be referred to a specialist for further evaluation and management.

Emotional Considerations

Anticipation and Anxiety: It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety before the scan. Remember, the majority of anomaly scans show normal development.
Support: Bring a partner, family member, or friend for emotional support. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before and after the scan.

The anomaly scan, or anatomy scan, is a crucial part of prenatal care, providing detailed information about your baby’s development and detecting any potential anomalies. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare for the scan and make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

For more information or to schedule an anomaly scan, please contact London Private Ultrasound. Visit our website at www.londonsono.com, call us at 02071013377, or email us at [email protected]. Take proactive steps towards ensuring a healthy pregnancy today.