Congratulations! You have officially entered the "golden phase" of pregnancy, aka the second trimester. This is an exciting time because morning sickness usually subsides, your energy levels rise, and detailed scans provide a more complete picture of your baby's development. The second trimester, which lasts from weeks 13 to 27, is an important time to monitor your baby's development. Several important ultrasounds and diagnostic tests are performed during this time to ensure that everything is running smoothly
Anomaly scan (routine)
What is an anomaly scan?
- The anomaly scan, also known as the mid-pregnancy scan or Level 2 ultrasound, is one of the most detailed ultrasounds performed during pregnancy. It completes a thorough assessment of your baby's anatomy, ensuring that all vital organs are developing properly. It is performed between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy.
What does this scan look for?
- Baby’s anatomy: It includes an examination of the brain, spine, heart, stomach, kidneys, bladder, limbs, and other vital organs.
- Neural tube defects: Identifies conditions like spina bifida.
- Heart defects: This checks that the heart chambers, valves, and blood flow are functioning properly.
- Facial development tests for cleft lip and palate.
- Placenta and umbilical cord: Determines the position of the placenta (important for ruling out placenta previa) and checks that the umbilical cord has the proper number of vessels.
- Amniotic fluid levels: It determines the amount of fluid surrounding your baby, which is required for lung development.
- Growth and position: Ensures your baby's proper growth and position in the uterus.
Why is this scan important?
- It performs a thorough examination of your baby's health and development.
- If structural abnormalities are discovered, early intervention and planning for specialised care can be implemented.
- It helps determine whether additional tests are required.
- How is it done?
- This scan is carried out abdominally by applying ultrasound gel to your stomach and moving a probe to capture images.
Cervical length scan (optional)
What is a cervical length scan?
- This scan measures the length of the cervix to determine the likelihood of preterm labor. A short cervix may indicate an increased risk of early delivery. It is typically done between 16 and 24 weeks
What does this scan look for?
- Cervical length: A cervix measuring less than 25mm may indicate an increased risk of preterm birth.
- Signs of cervical incompetence: Determines whether the cervix is opening prematurely, which may necessitate medical intervention.
- Preterm labor risk: Helps medical practitioners decide whether to treat with progesterone or perform a cervical cerclage (stitching the cervix closed).
When is it required?
- It is usually done if you have:
- A history of premature labor or miscarriage.
- Cervical procedures that have been performed previously.
- Signs/symptoms include pelvic pressure and unusual discharge.
Why is this scan important?
- Early detection of a short cervix allows for preventive measures to reduce the risk of preterm birth.
- It helps in treatment decisions such as the need for bed rest, medications, or cervical cerclage.
How is it done?
- This scan is typically transvaginal because it provides a more precise measurement of the cervix.
Fetal Echocardiography (detailed heart scan)(optional)
What is fetal echocardiography?
- This is a specialized ultrasound that provides a thorough examination of your baby's heart. It is used when there is a high risk of congenital heart defects. It is usually performed between 18 and 24 weeks.
What does this scan look for?
- Heart chambers and valves: Ensures that the heart forms properly.
- Blood flow: Determines whether blood is circulating properly.
- Congenital heart defects: Identifies conditions such as holes in the heart, abnormal valve formation, and irregular rhythms.
When is it required?
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It is usually performed if:
- There is a family history of congenital heart defects.
- The mother has diabetes or an autoimmune disorder.
- The anomaly scan indicates a possible heart condition.
- Your baby has an increased nuchal translucency measurement (the amount of fluid behind the baby's neck) in the first trimester
Why is this scan important?
- Early detection of heart conditions allows for more effective delivery and postnatal care.
- Some defects may require immediate medical attention after you have given birth.
How is it done?
- It is performed abdominally, similar to a regular ultrasound, but focuses on your baby's heart.
Doppler ultrasound (optional)
What is a Doppler ultrasound?
- A Doppler ultrasound measures blood flow in the placenta, umbilical cord, and organs to ensure that your baby receives adequate oxygen and nutrients. It is performed typically between 20 and 24 weeks.
What does this scan look for?
- Placental blood flow: This checks that the placenta is functioning properly.
- Umbilical cord circulation: Identifies any problems that could limit blood supply.
- Baby's blood circulation: Evaluates blood flow to vital organs such as the brain and heart.
When is it required?
- It is usually required if:
- You have a history of hypertension, diabetes, or preeclampsia.
- Your baby is smaller than anticipated (fetal growth restriction).
- There is some concern about placental insufficiency.
Why is this scan important?
- It can detect early signs of fetal distress.
- Helps medical practitioners decide whether early delivery is necessary in severe cases.
How is it done?
- It is done abdominally with a special ultrasound mode to monitor blood flow.
Amniocentesis (optional)
What is amniocentesis?
- Amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure that examines the amniotic fluid for genetic abnormalities or infections. It is usually done between the 15th and 20th week.
What does this scan look for?
- Chromosomal abnormalities include Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome.
- Genetic conditions include sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis.
- Infections that could affect your baby.
When is it required?
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It is required if:
- The anomaly scan indicates a potential problem.
- The mother is more than 35 years old.
- There is a family history of genetic disorders.
Why is this scan important?
- It offers a definitive diagnosis rather than merely a risk assessment.
- Helps parents make informed pregnancy decisions.
How is it done?
- A thin needle is inserted into your abdomen to obtain a sample of amniotic fluid.
The second trimester is an important time for monitoring your baby's health and development. Your baby is growing, and you are doing everything possible to ensure a safe and healthy journey ahead. If you have any concerns, always communicate with your healthcare provider; they will be there for you every step of the way!
