Detailed Anatomy Scan (19-24 weeks)

How is the scan done?

The scan will be performed in the same manner as that done at the time of your booking scan. You will lie on a couch and a trained ultrasound practitioner will put scan gel and the scan head onto your abdomen. This will give moving pictures on the screen which help us to measure the baby, and give us other information. These images can be difficult to see clearly, but the sonographer is skilled at interpreting them.

Is the scan always right?

No, it is not. This is still a screening test. Fetal anomaly scans can only pick up certain problems your baby may have. About half of the major abnormalities, which cause serious difficulties for babies, will be seen on a scan, and half will not be seen. This means that even though the scan appears normal, there is a small chance that your baby could still have a problem. These scans are better at picking up some abnormalities better than others (see list). Very occasionally, the scan may suggest that there is a problem, but later turns out to be healthy - which unfortunately can cause unnecessary anxiety. This happens because there is wide variation in how babies appear on scans, and what can seem to be abnormal can be a perfectly normal variation.

What kinds of problems can't be seen on scan?

Some problems can never be seen on scan e.g. cerebral palsy, autism, deafness and blindness. The scan cannot detect Down's syndrome, but can sometimes see "soft markers" and bowel or heart problems that can be associated to the condition. Most babies with Down's syndrome will look normal on ultrasound scans.

What will happen if there is a problem?

If the scan detects a problem, you will be told at the time of the scan that there is a problem, but a full discussion with the appropriate specialist will be arranged. This appointment will depend on each hospital, as to the timescale. If you find yourself in this situation and are looking for support and information, contact the charity Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC).

Can I find out the sex of the baby?

Yes, although the scan may give a clue to the sex of the baby, this is only accurate in 98% of cases. Remember that the purpose of the scan is to look for serious problems and we would not repeat a scan to identify the baby's sex. It will also depend on the way baby is lying, whether we see or not.

Do you always get a good view of the baby?

The accuracy of ultrasound depends on getting a good view of the baby. This may be difficult for the sonographers if:

• Your baby is lying in an awkward position at the time of scan
• There is too little fluid surrounding your baby
• You are above average weight.

We will try our best to tell you as much as we can from the scan. If we do not get a good enough picture, we may ask you to come back after a short walk.

Download Pregnancy Scan Leaflet Here>

For more details
Tel: 0845 521 4500
Email: fife@healthcarenow.co.uk