A fetal anatomy scan or 20-week ultrasound is one of the most essential prenatal ultrasound, which is performed during the 18th and 22nd weeks of pregnancy. During this screening test, the doctor will move an ultrasound wand over your belly to take measurements and pictures of certain organs of the baby.
If you are above the age of 35 or have a history of genetic disorders then you must consult a gynaecologist who can help you undergo a fetal anatomy scan in Siliguri. This non-invasive prenatal testing is entirely safe as it imposes no side effects or risks to the baby or the mother.
Given below are some of the facts that you must know before undergoing a fetal anatomy scan.
Top 5 facts about Fetal Anatomy Scan
1. It can detect congenital defects
One of the main facts that you must know about fetal anatomy scans is that it is highly effective in detecting any form of congenital defects in the fetus. Firstly, it looks at all the chambers of the heart to determine any form of heart defects and after that, it also examines for any spinal defects or malformation of bones.
The abnormal accumulation of fluid in the brain can also be identified which can further cause developmental delays. The other defects identified with this test are the missing of the kidney, defects in the abdominal wall, and diaphragm defects.
2. It examines the organs of the baby
You must also know that a fetal anatomy scan not only just detects birth defects but it can also thoroughly examine all the organs of the baby. This may include checking the presence of the urinary bladder, and kidneys.
This test mainly takes the measurements of the thigh bones, head, and abdomen while checking the brain, spine, hands, feet, arms, and stomach of the baby. The blood vessels present in the umbilical cord and the positioning of the spine is also determined by it.
3. It has certain limitations
It must always be remembered that despite being an effective prenatal test, it also possesses certain limitations. This test is also not 100% accurate and in some cases, it may miss detecting certain abnormalities.
Some of the factors that can decrease the accuracy of this test include multiple pregnancies, obesity, and improper positioning of the baby. This is why it is always a better option to seek the guidance of an experienced feto expert in Siliguri before taking a decision based on the test reports.
4. It can determine the gender of the baby
Another fact about fetal anatomy scans is that they can successfully identify the gender of the baby. However, it is illegal in India to get to know the gender of the fetus during pregnancy.
This is why most of the centres don’t examine the genital organs of the baby. It is also the main reason behind the identification of defects in the genital organs only after birth.
5. It can check the health condition of the mother
Along with determining the health status of the fetus, a fetal anatomy scan can also analyse the health condition of the mother. This test can identify the amount of amniotic fluid, positioning of the placenta, and functioning of the umbilical cord to reduce further pregnancy complications.
Understanding this health information about the baby and mother through the fetal anatomy scan in Siliguri is essential for experiencing a smooth delivery period. It will also help in providing urgent diagnosis and treatment to the baby if any abnormality is detected.
When is the 20-Week Scan Done?
- Between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy
- Baby’s organs are fully formed
- Growth patterns can be assessed accurately
- Structural abnormalities can be detected early
What Does a Fetal Anatomy Scan Detect?
- Congenital (birth) defects
- Heart abnormalities
- Brain development issues
- Spine defects
- Limb abnormalities
Organ development
- Kidneys
- Liver
- Stomach
- Urinary bladder
Placenta & amniotic fluid
- Placenta position
- Amniotic fluid levels
Umbilical cord function
- Blood flow
- Cord structure
