Pregnancy is a journey filled with joy, anticipation, and sometimes a bit of anxiety, especially when it comes to ensuring the health of your unborn child. One of the most important milestones during this time is the fetal anomaly scan, also known as the mid-pregnancy scan or level 2 ultrasound. This detailed scan helps check the baby’s development and detect any abnormalities early on, offering peace of mind for expectant parents.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about a fetal anomaly scan, including its timing, benefits, and what to expect, brought to you by Lifeline Hospital, Adoor, the best multispecialty hospital in Kerala known for its expert maternity and fetal care services.
When is a Fetal Anomaly Scan Done?
The fetal anomaly scan is usually performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This timing is ideal because the baby is developed enough for accurate imaging but still small enough to view in detail. It’s a part of routine antenatal care and is completely safe for both mother and baby.
What Does the Scan Look For?
During the fetal anomaly scan, the sonographer will examine the baby’s entire body from head to toe. This includes:
- Brain and skull
- Spine alignment
- Heart structure and function
- Abdomen and kidneys
- Arms, legs, hands, and feet
- Face (for cleft lip or palate)
- Umbilical cord and placenta location
- Amniotic fluid levels
The scan also checks for congenital abnormalities such as spina bifida, heart defects, or limb deformities. While not all conditions can be detected, the scan provides a comprehensive picture of your baby’s physical development.
Why is the Fetal Anomaly Scan Important?
The importance of a fetal anomaly scan cannot be overstated. It serves several key purposes:
- Early Detection of Abnormalities
If an issue is found, parents can make informed decisions with the help of healthcare professionals. - Better Planning for Birth
In some cases, special care may be needed during delivery or immediately after birth. The scan allows doctors to prepare accordingly. - Reassurance for Parents
For most, the scan provides reassurance that everything is progressing well with the pregnancy. - Opportunity for Further Testing
If something unusual is noticed, additional tests like amniocentesis or fetal MRI may be recommended.
Who Performs the Scan?
The fetal anomaly scan is typically performed by a trained sonographer or fetal medicine specialist. At Lifeline Hospital, Adoor, only experienced professionals with advanced training in maternal-fetal medicine conduct these scans using state-of-the-art equipment.
Why Choose Lifeline Hospital, Adoor for Your Fetal Anomaly Scan?
When it comes to fetal care, choosing a trusted medical facility is crucial. Lifeline Hospital, Adoor, recognised as the best multispecialty hospital in Kerala, offers:
- Highly experienced gynaecologists and radiologists
- World-class ultrasound and diagnostic imaging facilities
- Personalised pregnancy care plans
- Counselling and support for high-risk pregnancies
- A holistic approach to maternal and fetal well-being
With its strong focus on quality and compassion, Lifeline Hospital ensures that every expectant mother receives the best care possible.
What Happens After the Scan?
After the fetal anomaly scan, the sonographer will prepare a report for your doctor. If everything is normal, you can continue with routine prenatal check-ups. If there are any concerns, your doctor will guide you through the next steps, which may include:
- Additional scans
- Genetic testing
- Specialist consultations
- Referral to a fetal medicine expert
In most cases, the scan results are reassuring, giving families confidence as they look forward to welcoming their baby.
Does It Reveal the Baby’s Gender?
In some countries, the scan may reveal the baby’s gender. However, in India, prenatal gender detection is illegal under the PCPNDT Act, and healthcare providers strictly follow this regulation.
Preparing for the Scan
Here are a few tips to prepare for your fetal anomaly scan:
- Arrive on time with your previous medical records
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Drink water before the scan (as recommended)
- Relax—this is a safe and painless procedure
How Often is It Repeated?
The fetal anomaly scan is typically done once during mid-pregnancy. However, if your pregnancy is classified as high-risk, your doctor might schedule follow-up scans to monitor specific concerns more closely.
Conclusion
A fetal anomaly scan is a vital part of ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy. While it may feel a little daunting, remember that it’s a tool designed to help you and your doctor better understand your baby’s development.
Choosing a reliable hospital like Lifeline Hospital, Adoor can make all the difference in your pregnancy journey. As the best multispecialty hospital in Kerala, Lifeline Hospital is committed to providing expert, empathetic, and evidence-based care to every mother and baby.