An anomaly scan is a detailed ultrasound scan performed during the second trimester of pregnancy, typically between 18 and 21 weeks, to check the physical development of the baby. Its primary purpose is to look for any structural abnormalities or anomalies in the baby’s body, including the brain, heart, spine, and other organs.
This scan is also known as the mid-pregnancy scan, Level II ultrasound, or TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies) scan.
The Purpose of the Anomaly Scan
The anomaly scan is a crucial part of routine antenatal care. It is a comprehensive check of the baby’s anatomy to ensure that all the organs are developing normally. The scan provides reassurance to the parents and allows doctors to detect any potential issues early.
The scan carefully examines:
- The baby’s body parts: It checks the structure of the baby’s head, face, spine, abdominal wall, heart, stomach, kidneys, arms, legs, hands, and feet.
- The position of the placenta: To check for conditions like placenta previa, where the placenta is low-lying.
- The amount of amniotic fluid: To ensure there is a healthy amount of fluid around the baby.
- The baby’s growth: The sonographer will take measurements of the baby’s head, abdomen, and thigh bone to check if the baby is growing as expected.
What Abnormalities Can Be Detected?
The anomaly scan can detect a number of serious structural conditions, although it cannot find every possible problem. Some of the conditions it can identify include:
- Spina bifida: An open neural tube defect affecting the spine.
- Anencephaly: A severe defect where a major portion of the brain and skull is absent.
- Congenital heart defects: Problems with the structure of the baby’s heart.
- Cleft lip: A gap or split in the upper lip.
- Diaphragmatic hernia: A hole in the muscle that separates the chest and abdomen.
- Major limb abnormalities.
It is important to note that the scan is not 100% accurate, and some conditions may not be visible or may develop later in the pregnancy.
The Anomaly Scan Procedure
The anomaly scan is a painless and safe procedure that uses standard ultrasound technology.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Preparation | You may be asked to have a full bladder, as this can help to lift the uterus and provide a clearer view of the baby. Check with your hospital for specific instructions. |
| The Scan | You will lie down, and a gel will be applied to your abdomen. The sonographer will move a handheld probe (transducer) over your belly. The probe sends out sound waves that create an image of your baby on a screen. |
| Duration | The scan usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes to complete, as the sonographer needs to carefully examine all parts of the baby’s body. |
| Can you find out the gender? | It is often possible to determine the baby’s gender during this scan. However, prenatal sex determination is illegal in India under the PC-PNDT Act, and the sonographer is not allowed to reveal this information. |
What Happens if an Anomaly is Found?
If the scan suggests a possible problem, it can be a very worrying time for parents. The sonographer may ask for a second opinion from another colleague, or you may be referred to a fetal medicine specialist. You might be offered further diagnostic tests, such as an amniocentesis, to get more information. The medical team will provide counseling and support to help you understand the findings and discuss all the available options.
For most parents, the anomaly scan is a happy and reassuring experience that offers a wonderful opportunity to see their baby in detail. This scan is a key milestone in pregnancy, different from earlier scans or a later follicular study which is done for conception. For more information, you can refer to guidelines from health authorities like the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an anomaly scan during pregnancy?
An anomaly scan, or Level II ultrasound, is a detailed scan performed between 18 and 21 weeks of pregnancy to check the baby’s physical development and to look for any structural abnormalities in the baby’s organs, spine, and limbs.
In which month is the anomaly scan done?
The anomaly scan is done in the fifth month of pregnancy, specifically between the 18th and 21st weeks of gestation.
Is the anomaly scan compulsory?
While not legally compulsory, the anomaly scan is a standard and highly recommended part of antenatal care in India and across the world. It provides crucial information about the baby’s health and development.
Is the anomaly scan painful?
No, the anomaly scan is a completely painless and non-invasive procedure. It is a standard abdominal ultrasound, and you will only feel the pressure of the probe moving over the gel on your belly.
Can the anomaly scan detect Down syndrome?
The anomaly scan cannot definitively diagnose chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome. However, it can sometimes detect physical markers or features that are associated with such conditions. A definitive diagnosis would require further invasive tests like amniocentesis.