Fetal anomaly scan

Unveiling Peace of Mind with Fetal Anomaly Scan

A fetal anomaly scan, also called the 20-week pregnancy scan, projects a black-and-white sideways picture of the fetus and thoroughly examines the baby’s size and physical development. The 2D image can help understand congenital disabilities, which helps in figuring out a treatment plan so that immediate medical care can be given to the baby upon birth. 

How Do I Prepare for Anomaly Scan?

There is not much to do to prepare for the appointment. However, you must know the scan might take longer. Follow any dietary instructions given by your healthcare provider.

Why is the Anomaly Scan Done?

The fetal anomaly test scans any abnormalities in the developing baby. Though it cannot evaluate every tiny detail, it gives the sonographer an idea about the baby’s heart, brain, spinal cord, face, kidney, bones, and abdomen. The test also allows the doctor to identify the following conditions –

  • Cleft lips
  • Serious cardiac
  • Exomphalos
  • Gastroschisis
  • Diaphragmatic hernia 
  • Open spina bifida
  • Edward’s syndrome or T18
  • Patau’s syndrome or T13
  • Anencephaly
  • Other abnormalities

The fetal anomaly test detects issues before birth, aiding in timely surgical intervention and improving the baby’s chances of survival.

What Happens During the Scan?

Before the test, you will be asked to drink plenty of water. Once you get the urine sensation, you will be asked to lie on the couch or the bed nearby the ultrasound machine. Here’s what happens during the fetal anomaly scan –

  • The sonographer doing the anomaly test scrutinizes every body part of the baby and takes measurements to ensure normal growth.
  • Check the limbs for organ deformities, such as missing fingers or toes.   
  • Checks the facial features, including eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Thoroughly checks the brain, bones, heart, lungs, kidneys, and abdomen. It also looks for congenital disabilities.
  • Check where the placenta is placed.
  • Determines the amniotic fluid level.

What Abnormalities Can Be Seen on the Scan?

Below are the abnormalities that can be seen through the scan –

  • Spina bifida
  • Cleft lip
  • Club feet
  • Heart defect
  • Structural abnormalities in the brain
  • Diaphragmatic hernia
  • Kidney problems
  • Genetic disorders caused by chromosomal abnormalities

What Happens After the Scan Shows Some Defect?

Fetal anomaly scans are usually recommended to check how the baby is doing. If an anomaly is confirmed, the report is sent to the doctor for double checking and to understand the severity of the condition. If the anomaly is small, it can get better on its own. However, in case of serious anomalies, the parents are given counseling, and further tests might be required to find out more about the anomaly and determine the course of action. 

During the counseling with our doctors at Women And Children Hospital in Kukatpally, the parents are informed about all the possible courses of action, including termination of the pregnancy. However, the decision lies in the hands of parents. At Giggles Hospital, we always respect the parent’s choice. 

Why Choose Giggles Hospitals?

A fetal anomaly scan is an optional test that you can do to check if your baby is healthy and developing well. You have to drink plenty of water for a better image. It helps to plan out treatment procedures for your baby if there is any defect in the baby. You can visit Giggles Hospitals for Best Gynecologists near me for more details on the fetal anomaly scan.With state-of-the-art facilities and a team of skilled medical professionals, Giggles Hospitals ensures the highest quality of care and a comforting environment for patients and their families.

Our Doctors

Dr. Batchu Sowdamini

Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist View Profile
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Dr. Padmaja S

Gynaecologist and Obstetrician View Profile
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Frequently Asked Questions

At our Giggles Hospitals for Baby emergency hospital near me, All pregnant women are informed about the fetal anomaly scan and what it can and cannot detect. During the consultation, the option of undergoing the fetal anomaly scan is discussed and offered based on the woman's preference.

 

There are two types of scans done - 2D and 3D. They can either be done in color or in black and white.

During a fetal anomaly scan, our healthcare providers apply a gel on the belly and move a transducer over it to obtain images of the baby.

The fetal anomaly scan usually takes about 30 minutes. This is because the baby in the movement might move a lot or lie in a weird position.

A fetal anomaly scan also tells if it is a boy or a girl. This is usually detected between 18-20 weeks.