The anomaly scan, also called the 20-week scan or mid-pregnancy scan, is one of the most detailed scans of pregnancy. It’s the appointment where Dr Duncan checks your baby’s development at the point in pregnancy where each organ system can be examined clearly.
When the anomaly scan happens
The anomaly scan is performed at 17-24 weeks of pregnancy, with most appointments scheduled around 20 weeks. This window is chosen because your baby is developed enough to examine each organ system in detail while still small enough to image fully in a single scan.
What the anomaly scan is for
The purpose of an anomaly scan is to:
- Check that your baby is developing normally at the mid pregnancy stage
- Look at where the placenta is lying in your uterus
- Take various measurements to make sure that your baby’s growth is on track
- Check all your baby’s body parts for conditions such as cleft lip and palate, spina bifida, and any abnormalities of the brain, heart and other organs
- Confirm your baby’s sex from around 16 weeks, if you would like to know
An anomaly scan is a wonderful event as it allows you to see your baby’s face, limbs, hands, feet and heartbeat for the first time.
What happens during your appointment
The scan is painless. Ultrasound uses sound waves only, with no radiation, so it is safe for both you and your baby. You will lie on the examination couch, and a small amount of water-based gel is applied to your abdomen so the probe can move smoothly across the skin.
You will see the live images on the screen as the scan progresses, and Dr Duncan talks through what he is looking at as he goes.
What happens if something unexpected is found
If anything unexpected is identified during the scan, Dr Duncan will discuss it with you fully at the same appointment. He is one of a small group of UK consultants accredited as a sub-specialist in maternal and fetal medicine in 2001, so most findings can be assessed and explained at the time, and any further investigations are arranged from there.
Booking your anomaly scan
To book an anomaly scan, please contact the practice. The anomaly scan is available at The Portland Hospital, 132 Harley Street, and Ovara Health in Chelsea. For the full set of scans available through pregnancy, see Ultrasound Baby Scans.
