What is the anomaly scan?
The Anomaly Scan, also known as the 20-week scan, is a detailed ultrasound performed between 20 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. It assesses your baby’s anatomy in details to identify any structural abnormalities.
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When can I have the anomaly scan?
Scheduled between 20 and 24 weeks, this scan provides a comprehensive overview of your baby’s development.
What does the anomaly scan check for?
This scan evaluates the fetal anatomy is details with a special attention to:
- Brain and Spine: Detecting neural tube defects.
- Heart: Assessing for congenital heart conditions.
- Face: Identifying facial abnormalities such as cleft lip or palate.
- Abdominal Organs: Examining the stomach, kidneys, and bladder.
- Limbs: Ensuring proper development.
The scan also aims to assess the placenta and amniotic fluid in addition to measuring the fetal size to ensure appropriate fetal growth and well-being. Moreover, the scan evaluates your risk for developing preeclampsia (high blood pressure/hypertension during pregnancy) by measuring the resistance to flow across your uterine arteries (uterine artery Doppler study).
The baby’s sex can usually be determined during this scan if you wish to know.
If abnormalities are detected, their significance will be discussed, and further counselling with a consultant will be offered.
How is the anomaly scan performed?
Conducted transabdominally, the ultrasound probe is moved over your abdomen to capture detailed images of your baby’s anatomy.
Why do I need to have the anomaly scan?
This is an important detailed pregnancy scan that is performed to examine each part of the fetal body and to check for any abnormalities.
What is the price for the anomaly scan?
Please refer to our Fees & Services page for current pricing, or contact our team directly for more information.
Important information about your appointment:
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour in singleton pregnancies.
- Results: A detailed explanation and counselling session takes place at the end of the scan and a printed report will be provided immediately. A copy of the results will be emailed to your referring doctor if details are provided.
- Images: 2D (black and white) and 3D (coloured) images are included at no extra charge. These are a wonderful keepsake and help you share the experience with loved ones.
- Second Opinions: If you’re visiting us for a second opinion, please bring any relevant reports or scan results from previous appointments. This helps our consultants provide the most accurate and informed assessment.
- Cervical Assessment (if needed): In certain cases, we may recommend a transvaginal scan to assess the cervix. This can help detect early signs of potential complications such as preterm birth. If performed, it carries an additional charge.
