The anomaly scan / 20-week Sonography / mid-pregnancy scan / morphology scan
During the nine months of pregnancy, a patient is advised multiple health checks and sonography.
The sonography at 20 weeks is called an anomaly scan and has a special significance. Normally a 2D scan is done but in tertiary care centers and metro cities facilities for a 3D, the 4D scan is available. These can give views of the baby from different angles. It is a magical experience for the will-be parents to see their baby in this human form and helps create a bond with the baby.
Is anomaly scan necessary?
The scan is not mandatory, but it is advisable to do it so that any structural defects of the baby can be assessed.
Is anomaly scan harmful?
The anomaly scan is not harmful as the ultrasound rays do not harm the mother and the baby.
It is important to emphasize that it is illegal to see and disclose the gender of the baby in India.
When is an Anomaly scan done in a pregnancy?
It is usually carried out between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy. The main purpose of this scan is to check the formation of most of the organs and body structure and assess the growth of the baby. In this scan, all the critical organs are assessed to ensure that they are normal in structure and function.
Can anomaly scan detect birth defects?
The scan can detect various structure related defects such as cleft lip, cleft palate, abnormal shape of baby- hydrocephalus, septal defects in the heart, defects in the formation of the arteries and veins that originate or lead up to the heart, presence of two kidneys, filling up of the urinary bladder, shape of the baby’s spine, baby’s arms, legs, feet, and hands. The abdominal wall will be checked to ensure that it covers all the organs in the front.
The scan will also look at the quantity of the amniotic fluid and position of the placenta.
Measurements of various parts of the body are taken to determine the gestational age.
What to do in case of negative results during the anomaly scan?
If there are any abnormalities detected, then the patient in consultation with the doctor may take the following steps
- Repeat the scan in a few days for better assessment.
- Involve the neonatologist or any other specialist that may be required.
- May request a 2D -echo in case there is a problem with the heart.
- Involve the care of a fetal medicine expert.
- Suggest interventions in the womb.
- Plan corrective procedures as soon as the baby is born.
- In situations where the condition is such that the life of a mother or baby is endangered then they will recommend a termination.
Can anomaly scan be wrong?
It is important to bear in mind that it is not always necessary that the scan is 100% accurate and always shows correct results and can always detect all abnormalities.
The anomaly scan is a unique experience for the mother, an important tool for the doctor to know the growth and well being of the unborn baby. So get one done when advised to do so and enjoy the experience.
