A 20-week ultrasound, also known as an anomaly scan, is a prenatal ultrasound that is performed between 18-22 weeks of pregnancy. It monitors the foetus's physical growth and can detect certain congenital illnesses as well as severe anatomical anomalies. To acquire photographs of the foetus inside your uterus, your healthcare professional will use an ultrasound machine. The sonographer, or ultrasound technician, will collect measurements and ensure that the foetus is growing adequately for its age. At this session, you may also learn the foetus's gender.
Importance
- Baby's gender is revealed
- Baby's age is determined
- Brain size and structure checked
- The possibility of baby having cleft lip is checked, which is hard to detect
- Baby's spine examined for issues, such as skin coverage over spine observed as well as any other complications
- Organ placement inspected
- Fetal heart chambers and valves examined
- The doctor will also examine the stomach to see if it is normal or swollen, since the foetus may swallow some of the amniotic fluid, which can be seen in their stomach as a black bubble
- The placenta, umbilical cord, and fluid in the mother's womb will also be examined
- Baby's kidneys examined: To check if two are present, and if the urine is flowing to bladder normally
What to expect
The majority of scans are performed by specially trained personnel known as sonographers. The scan is performed in a dimly lit environment so that the sonographer can obtain clear images of the baby. You will be asked to lie down on a couch, lightly lower your shalwar or trousers to your hips, and lift your top to your chest, exposing your abdomen.
- The sonographer or assistant places tissue to shield your clothes from the gel.
- Using a handheld device with gel, the sonographer glides it over your skin to study the baby's body, ensuring good contact.
- This process produces a black and white image of the baby on the ultrasound screen.
- The scan is painless, though slight pressure might be used for better views, causing mild discomfort.
- The sonographer positions the screen optimally for a clear view of the baby, either directly or at an angle.
- Sometimes, the sonographer might focus quietly while checking your baby; they will discuss the images afterward.
- A 20-week screening appointment usually lasts about 30 minutes.
- Occasionally, it is challenging to capture a clear image due to the baby's position, movement, weight factors, or dense tissues. This is not a cause for concern.
- Depending on instructions from the doctor or midwife, you might need to have a full bladder for the appointment. Feel free to reach out to your medical practitioner for any further guidance prior to your visit.
Is an anomaly scan harmful?
No, having a 20-week ultrasound is not dangerous. Ultrasound is not harmful to you or the foetus, according to research. A prenatal ultrasound at 20 weeks is considered medically important to detect possibly life-threatening abnormalities.
It's natural to feel both excited and worried about your 20-week ultrasound. You will be able to see the foetus and learn about its development. Discuss your concerns with your healthcare professional so that they can reassure you and ease your fears!
