The anomaly scan is usually performed between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. This scan is used to determine whether or not the child’s structures and organs are developing typically.

This anomaly scan video explains how the brain, face, spine, heart, stomach, bowel, kidneys, limbs, and amniotic fluid levels are examined. This scan has restrictions and cannot detect every possible abnormality.

Even a regular anomaly scan at 20 weeks cannot assure that the baby will be healthy at 40 weeks.

Why is an anomaly scan important?

An anomaly scan is important as it allows the doctors to see all the major organs in the baby as it is the ideal time to see the baby’s anatomy.

What does this scan do?

This scan allows the doctor to determine if the baby is developing normally. This includes the structure and functions of all the major organs.

What major organs can we see in an anomaly scan?

In an anomaly scan, all the major organs starting from the head all the way to its toes are studied. Which consists of the brain, lungs, liver, kidneys, heart et cetera.

Apart from the vital organs, the anomaly scan also scans the baby’s amniotic fluid level that is surrounding the baby, the placental position, and the baby’s overall well-being and growth.

To know more about what is covered in an anomaly scan watch our anomaly scan video below.

Anomaly Scan Video

What can be identified in an anomaly scan?

Some of the main identifications that are done during an anomaly scan include the baby’s measurement, the circumference of the head, the baby’s abdominal circumference as well as the baby’s thigh bone length.

Apart from these, the baby’s weight is also plotted in a graph. And as always, the baby’s vital organs will also be identified and scanned for any abnormalities.

What abnormalities can be picked up during an anomaly scan?

Although the anomaly scan is able to identify any and all major underlying problems, it may not be able to identify evolving or ultra-minor abnormalities.
What are the limitations of the anomaly scan?

Although an anomaly scan is capable of identifying abnormalities, there are certain limitations that come with it. Some of these limitations include:

• It cannot identify the reason behind the abnormality
  
• Some abnormalities may not be evident during the 18 to 20 weeks scan
  
• Mother’s weight and scars from previous surgeries may affect the efficiency of the scan
  
• The baby’s position and multiple pregnancies such as having twins may also affect the test results
  

To know more about your baby’s health or about your pregnancy, the doctor might recommend further testing such as an amniocentesis. Talk to your healthcare about the next steps to guide you in your pregnancy journey.

Does an anomaly scan guarantee a healthy baby?

The answer is no. Even if your anomaly scan results show a normal and healthy baby at 18 to 20 weeks, the limitation it has in regards to evolving abnormalities cannot be identified until later in the pregnancy.

Apart from this, genital organ anomalies are not studied during this scan. Depending on the test results, if there are any abnormalities such as a low-lying placenta your doctor will recommend another scan before your delivery to ensure the placenta has moved away from the site.

Takeaway

• The anomaly scan is done between 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy
  
• The anomaly scans observe the baby’s overall structure and vital organs
  
• The baby’s vital organs, body parts such as hands and legs as well as the amniotic fluid levels are checked
  
• There are some limitations to this scan, hence not all abnormalities can be detected
  
• A normal-looking anomaly scan at 20 weeks cannot guarantee a healthy baby at the time of delivery
  

To know more make an appointment with your healthcare provider or with your gynecologist. Additionally, you can also visit our website Jammi Scans to know more or to book your appointment.

Chennai Women’s Clinic is now Jammi Scans